This is Viewpoints for Saturday, Nov. 7, 2015
Corporations are people, too
In recent years, you've probably heard a number of Republican politicians mention "speaker discrimination." This political expression comes from the controversial U.S. Supreme Court decision on the Citizens United case. Corporations are merely groups of citizens, the High Court's right-wing majority said. Therefore, federal laws going back over 100 years which regulated the corporate contributions to political campaigns are not fair. What exactly is a corporation you might be wondering? Everyone knows that corporations are ruled by corporate executives who arrange bonuses, stock options and golden parachutes for themselves and select the members of their boards of directors. We also know that stockholders and employees do not participate in the corporation's decisions. You might also be wondering, how can these justices say that corporations which operate much like cotton plantations in the Old South are simply groups of citizens? Aren't they concerned about "listener discrimination"?
— Tom Louderback
Louisville, Ky.
Literal understanding
The only way to understand what God is communicating to us is to take the literal approach to reading and studying the Bible. When one reads the Bible in the normal literal method they will recognize when scripture employs similes, metaphors, hyperbole and figurative language and such. What they will not see in the Bible is "mythical" truth. Just because there are things in scripture you don't believe or understand doesn't mean there are errors in the Bible. It just means you are limited and fallible.
The Bible must be taken literally because one of its main purposes is to bring each person to the understanding of their sinful condition before God. The Bible then teaches us that the only way to God is through His son Jesus Christ. It's not Jesus plus your sincerity, accomplishments, good deeds, or religious works. Its faith in Jesus' sacrificial death to pay for your sins and belief in his resurrection. Your time in this life is short. Are you willing to reject the absolute truths of the Bible for man's empty philosophy? Are you willing to risk your eternal destiny for the temporary gains of this life?
— Craig Giddens
Warner Robins
Enjoy the show
The tragic downing of a Russian airliner in the Sinai with over 200 lost souls may determine the fate of ISIS/ISIL in Syria/Iraq. Rest assured the killing of innocent babushkas by the sub-human ISIS vermin will not end well for the terrorists. Blowing up a German, French or American airliner would likely produce a muted response, but the former KGB colonel is capable and willing to avenge his loss. Poking the Russian bear will draw a disproportionate response with no regard for "collateral damage" or western sensibilities. Putin will not strangle his response with foolish rules of Engagement such as those imposed by our limp-wristed, faculty lounge commander in chief. Will Putin's response be carpet bombing with dumb bombs, deployment of tactical nukes or large numbers of ground troops? Personally, I enjoy the mental image of fused glass in certain areas of the Middle East. Kinda speaks for itself. Will Putin become the new "Vlad the Impaler?" I recommend plenty of popcorn, cold beverages and a nice recliner to enjoy the show.
— John Brogden
Warner Robins
This story was originally published November 7, 2015 at 10:35 AM with the headline "This is Viewpoints for Saturday, Nov. 7, 2015 ."