Comments on: Acton Institute: Alinsky for Dummies

By: cynthia curran

cynthia curran — Thu, 12 Aug 2010 05:21:22 +0000

Alinsky is rather interesting, the left has him like the right had Otto Van Bismarck. Bismarck created the modern welfare state to avoid the growth of the socalist. Also, Bismarck has a strong influence on most conseratives in the us being strong on defense, while American Conseratives like classical liberals on the ecnomony, they like Bismarck and Disreali on foreign policy.

By: Chrys

Chrys — Thu, 12 Aug 2010 00:35:51 +0000

In reply to George Michalopulos. Exactly. From the story of Pandora's box to the axiom about riding the Tiger, every culture has recognized that caution is warranted. It takes staggering arrogance to unleash chaos and think that you won't be caught up in it.

By: George Michalopulos

George Michalopulos — Wed, 11 Aug 2010 21:12:26 +0000

In reply to Fr. Peter Dubinin. Fr Peter, I used to think that Alinsky was a modern Macchiavelli, but the more I learned about him, the more I came to realize how unfair I was being to Maccchiavelli. Though both were atheists, Macchiavelli at least believed in order.

By: Fr. Peter Dubinin

Fr. Peter Dubinin — Tue, 10 Aug 2010 13:12:01 +0000

O yes, Saul Alinsky…. I was first introduced to Saul Alinsky in my Power and Change in Society class as an UG at Loyola, Chicago. I wrote a critique of his book from what I thought was a clear, point of reference (God is personal, has revealed Himself and in that revelation provides to us an absolute to know right from wrong) perspective. Though my professor attempted to be understanding to my perspective, I got “tore up.” You see, in Alinsky’s scheme of things, there is no wrong or right; just what the “group” can change and gain for itself – no holds barred. If I need to deceive to realize my/group objective, I deceive; if I need to penetrate the very organization I hope to refashion or overthrow, then I peneterate the organization and work from within, etc., etc….. As a young undergrad, I could envision the chaos and even “anarchy” which could ensue by special interests employing Alinsky to realize their own objectives. My angst is further exacerbated to think of Alinsky being employed within the framework of a national government; by employing Alinsky in this arena, it contributes to creation of an atmosphere which will require the government to step up its police and law enforcement powers/activities in order chaos does not ensue and anarchy does not materialize; all the while playing “big brother” to all members of the collective.