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.
American voters did not elect Keynesian socialists to deconstruct the most successful economic system the world has ever seen, but that is what is happening. It is now evident, even to some of Obama's most ardent supporters, that the promises were merely expedient tools to power, classic stereotypes of political rhetoric forgotten as soon as the oath of office had been spoken. The citizens have noticed the cynicism and arrogance, and we are not forgiving of the deception. More government means inefficiency, corruption, and excessive spending. Excessive spending means more taxes. More taxes mean less growth and more regulation. More regulation means less freedom, and less freedom means failure. It always has, and it always will.
