Barataria - The work of Erik Hare

Nothing causes anxiety in America quite like China. The rise of this nation is perceived as our greatest threat in many critical places the US is used to dominating – economic power, military might, and technological leadership. It’s not a question of where China is today as much where it might be if the growth keeps up.

Yet for all of this, Richard Nixon’s observation in 1972 remains true – “China is not a threat.” To understand why it’s best to turn not to the policies and pronouncements of politicians but to popular culture. This is ultimate gauge of the most important resource of China and every other nation, the people.

On the surface, the huge summer hit “Wolf Warrior 2” may seem like everything we have to fear. Yet it shows exactly how China’s self identity and culture are evolving as much as their economy.

Continue reading →

2017 is gone. I would say “good riddance,” but there is no reason to believe 2018 will be a lot better. The world keeps on keepin’ on, for better or worse. Change doesn’t happen until everyone believes in it, accepts it, and makes it happen.

The eternal triangle of heart and arm and brain always marks human achievement.

Still, there is hope. There is nothing wrong with the world which cannot be solved by stopping for a moment and thinking. There is no thought which can’t be made into a plan with a sit-down among friends or, even better, enemies. There is no plan which can’t be made real by simply getting down to work.

Continue reading →