Only every once in a while does a movement rises up above the fray of typical partisan bickering and cynical debates and really create an atmosphere of genuine patriotism and devotion to country. Indeed, such emergencies are rare in today's government-dependent, fiscally irresponsible, kick 'em when they're already down, society.… 1 Comment

With all of the talk these days about the merits of Socialism versus the evil greed of Capitalism, is there any legitimate justification for supporting capitalism? This very question surely raises the ire of many committed Conservatives, Libertarians, and Objectivists.… Post the First Comment

Well Clemson, it's been a long year. A good one, don't get me wrong; but it sure has been long. Looking back over the collection of issues we've put out this year, I feel a sense of pride and accomplishment. The Observer has brought you worthwhile commentary, opinion, and news on a myriad of topics.… 2 Comments

Today, the Civil War is reduced in the media into simple terms of good guys versus bad guys. But in reality, history tells a much different, more complicated story. At least, that's what Ronald F. Maxwell, Director of epic films Gettysburg and Gods and Generals said in his lecture Tuesday, April 14.… Post the First Comment

More than a decade after the fall of Marxism, the expected capitalist revolution has not occurred. Capitalism has been successful only in the developed nations and has made little progress in the third world or in the former communist states. "The Mystery of Capital" by Hernando de Soto tackles one of the largest issues in development and comparative economics: non-convergence.… Post the First Comment

Coming out of the closet. Most of us have heard the term and know what it means. To humor this article let's say some people aren't as up to date. The phrase means to come out from hiding in your closet, where no one can see the true you, sometimes including yourself, and revealing yourself to your friends, family, and anyone who cares.… 1 Comment

Because payment of tax is compulsory and enforced by the police and justice system, taxation is theft, and government levies taxes via force and coercion. Taxation is government aggression. The difference between government and thievery is only a matter of legality.… 1 Comment

Following up on my February article that outlined the history and validity of Israel in the wake of Operation Cast Lead, an offensive to counter terrorism originating from the Gaza strip, there have been some follow-up questions posed to me and they are excellent questions that deserve attention and an explanation.… 2 Comments

In May 2007, The Observer reported evidence that linked Clemson University officials to the cover-up of a theft at an off-campus research lab, and that that theft had the potential to harm national security. What was not reported at the time was that theft at research labs has been a widespread problem across the United States.… Post the First Comment

As a fourth year student majoring in Leisure Skills here at Clemson, I have had a great deal of free time on my hands. Not to say that Leisure Skills is easy - quite the contrary. Leisure is a skill that can be mastered only by the truly diligent. However, to fill the massive holes in my daily schedule, I like to sit around and think.… Post the First Comment

On March 31, 2009, Clemson University saw the birth of a great new resource for graphic communications and packaging science majors. The Harris A. Smith Building, The Sonoco Institute of Packaging Design and Graphics at Clemson, opened its doors just before noon on Tuesday, March 31, after several speakers conveyed the benefits of the new building and took time to thank the project's donors.… 1 Comment