Genesis of the "NO" Logo
In history there have been two basic forms of social organization: collectivism and individualism. In the 20th and 21st century, collective variations have included socialism, fascism, Nazism, and communism. Under collectivism, a ruling class of “intellectuals”, bureaucrats, politicians and/or social planners decides what people want or what is “good” for society and then uses the coercive power of the State to regulate, tax and redistribute wealth in an attempt to achieve their desired objectives. Individualism is a political and social philosophy that emphasizes individual liberty, belief in the primary importance of the individual and in the virtues of self-reliance and personal independence and responsibility. It embraces opposition to controls over the individual when exercised by the state. The Preamble to our Constitution makes it plain that all power rests originally with the people, as individuals.
The “O” within the circle represents collectivism in its various forms. The “N” represents an emphatic repudiation of collectivism. The red, white and blue circles encompassing the “NO” are emblematic of our Republic. It is the responsibility of the individuals in an engaged and enlightened republic to limit the influence of the government, especially one that attempts to wield power outside the boundaries delineated by the Constitution.
These are precarious times. In 2008, it is estimated that one third of GDP will be spent by government at all levels. To add insult to injury, a government-induced crisis is getting a government-“insured” resolution. This site is one citizen’s attempt to motivate others to resist the path toward socialism in this country. To paraphrase one of my favorite presidents, government rarely solves problems but it often creates and then subsidizes them. Government must be limited in its power and responsibility. In recent decades our government has become more intrusive, and as a result individual liberties have been compromised. Outside Independence Hall, when the Constitutional Convention of 1787 ended, Ben Franklin was asked, "Well, Doctor, what have we got a republic or a monarchy?" With no hesitation whatsoever, Franklin responded, "A republic, if you can keep it." America has been a beacon of liberty, hope and prosperity for our citizens and the world for over 230 years. We must become a more engaged and enlightened republic in order that we may protect and preserve the foundations of this great nation for ourselves and future generations
