Given the sad state of affairs of our nation, it’s become all too clear that each generation since its inception has slowly deviated from the ideals and principals of our Constitutional Republic. There is no higher allegiance than fidelity and duty for government officials that serving the public trust. We have been betrayed. What can we do? And we must, do something.
A Comparative Analysis of The US and Extraterrestrial Government Structures
At the risk of sounding out of this world, this revelation is about a civilization and government on a “neighboring” planet, similar to Earth. Regardless of how a reader may feel or their beliefs regarding the existence of extraterrestrial life, we should agree to focus on the principals of good government that has been revealed for our benefit.
Abstract: This paper undertakes a comparative analysis of the governmental structures of a neighboring planet, referred to as Government On A Neighboring Planet (GONP), with the current political system of the United States of America. It explores the advantages and disadvantages of both systems.
Paper 72 Government On a Neighboring Planet
Source: https://www.urantia.org/urantia-book-standardized/paper-72-government-neighboring-planet
By understanding the successes of the GONP, we may gain insights into how improvements can be made in the governance of the United States, particularly in the areas of ethics, loyalty, adherence to principals and service. Their society at large enjoys the benefits of government officials that graduate from schools of statesmanship prior to holding public office.
NOTE: At the end of this analysis a proposed STATESMANSHIP SCHOOL curriculum is available a baseline for discussion and development.
Methodology:
This analysis is based on the content of The Urantia Book Circa Oct. 12, 1955, which outlines the governmental structures and practices of a similar nation on a neighboring planet (not necessarily within our solar system). The U.S. government is compared against this model, focusing on the areas of corruption, fidelity and practice, as well as the emphasis on honor, commitment to serving the people, and the requirement for government officials to graduate from schools of statesmanship.
Findings:
- Honor and Commitment to Serving the People:
The GONP places a strong emphasis on honor and commitment to serving the people. Government officials are expected to act with integrity and to put the needs of the people above their own or other’s narrow interests.
Even the most wealthy members of society work and pursue honors and recognition for public service. This is in stark contrast to the United States, where politicians are often criticized for putting their own interests ahead of the needs of the people.
The GONP’s emphasis on honor and commitment to serving the public is a valuable lesson for the United States, highlighting the need for reforms to ensure that government officials act with integrity and in the best interests of the people.
- Schools of Statesmanship:
The GONP requires judges, representatives, and other government officials to graduate from local, national, and regional schools of statesmanship. These schools provide a comprehensive education in the art of statesmanship, focusing on the principles of justice, liberty, and the common good. This ensures that government officials are well-equipped to make ethical and effective decisions that benefit the community as a whole. The higher the office the more Statesmanship education is required. Think of it, we require many professions such as doctors, lawyers, public accountants, airline pilots, shipping captains etc. to earn and maintain a verifiable certification and licensure to practice. Why should public servants be any different?
In contrast, the United States does not have a similar requirement, and many government officials lack the necessary education and training in statesmanship.
The GONP’s requirement for government officials to graduate from schools of statesmanship serves as a valuable lesson for the United States. Here is an excerpt from Paper 72:
"… 1. Statesmanship schools. These schools are of three classes: national, regional, and state. The public offices of the nation are grouped in four divisions. The first division of public trust pertains principally to the national administration, and all officeholders of this group must be graduates of both regional and national schools of statesmanship.
Individuals may accept political, elective, or appointive office in the second division upon graduating from any one of the ten regional schools of statesmanship; their trusts concern responsibilities in the regional administration and the state governments.
Division three includes state responsibilities, and such officials are only required to have state degrees of statesmanship.
The fourth and last division of officeholders are not required to hold statesmanship degrees, such offices being wholly appointive. They represent minor positions of assistantship, secretaryships, and technical trusts which are discharged by the various learned professions functioning in governmental administrative capacities.
72:8.3 (816.8)Judges of the minor and state courts hold degrees from the state schools of statesmanship. Judges of the jurisdictional tribunals of social, educational, and industrial matters hold degrees from the regional schools. Judges of the federal supreme court must hold degrees from all these schools of statesmanship."
Conclusion:
By learning from the successes of the GONP, the United States can take steps to improve its own governance, reducing corruption, increasing efficiency, ensuring that government officials act with integrity and in the best interests of the people, by requiring government officials graduate from schools of statesmanship.
Similarly medical doctors, accountants, lawyers and many other professions are required to prove competence in their respective fields and adhere to a professional standard of ethics or lose their privilege.
Further research is needed to explore the feasibility of implementing GONP inspired reforms in the United States, and to develop a roadmap for achieving these goals.
Upholding Public Trust: Lessons from Egregious Violations in the U.S. Government
Abstract: This analysis examines the critical role of public trust in the functioning of democratic institutions. A brief list of egregious violations of public trust by members of Congress, the judiciary, and executive management of government agencies are offered as case studies.
This analysis explores the consequences of these violations on public confidence and the integrity of the government. It also discusses the constitutional provisions for punishing such violations and the importance of restoring public trust through accountability and transparency.
Introduction: Public trust is a fundamental pillar of democratic governance. Some call it the “social contract.” It is the belief that those entrusted with power will act in the best interests of the people and not for personal gain or political advantage.
However, history is replete with instances where this trust has been violated, leading to severe consequences for the public and the institutions involved.
Analysis: It is important to briefly review a few of the egregious violations in the United States government and business either by commission or omission. And, highlighting their impact on public trust and the need for accountability and transparency to restore it.
Recent allegations and investigations involving President Joe Biden and his son Hunter Biden, as well as the “Crossfire Hurricane” scandal involving the DOJ and FBI, are also discussed in the context of public trust. No doubt there are numerous other cases one could cite in addition to the following:
Case Studies:
-
The Watergate Scandal (1972): The Nixon administration’s attempt to cover up its involvement in a break-in at the Democratic National Committee headquarters led to a significant erosion of public trust in the government.
-
The Enron Scandal (2001): Enron, a once-prominent energy company, collapsed due to widespread accounting fraud and insider trading, leading to billions of dollars in losses and a loss of trust in corporate America.
-
The Bernie Madoff Ponzi Scheme (2008): Madoff, a former NASDAQ chairman, orchestrated one of the largest financial frauds in history, defrauding investors of billions of dollars and eroding public trust in the financial system.
-
The ABSCAM Scandal (1980): Several members of Congress were convicted of accepting bribes in a sting operation, damaging public trust in the integrity of elected officials.
-
The Jack Abramoff Lobbying Scandal (2005): Abramoff, a prominent lobbyist, was convicted of corruption and bribery, leading to a loss of public trust in the lobbying system.
-
The Duke Cunningham Bribery Scandal (2005): Congressman Randy “Duke” Cunningham was convicted of accepting bribes from defense contractors, further eroding public trust in Congress.
-
The Tom DeLay Scandal (2005): House Majority Leader Tom DeLay was indicted on charges of money laundering and conspiracy, damaging public trust in the leadership of Congress.
-
The Rod Blagojevich Scandal (2009): Illinois Governor Rod Blagojevich was impeached and removed from office for attempting to sell Barack Obama’s Senate seat, severely damaging public trust in state government.
-
The Anthony Weiner Scandal (2011): Congressman Anthony Weiner resigned from office after sending sexually explicit messages to a minor, highlighting the abuse of power and the need for ethical conduct in public office.
-
The Rick Renzi Scandal (2013): Congressman Rick Renzi was convicted of extortion, wire fraud, and money laundering, further eroding public trust in Congress.
-
Allegations and Investigations involving President Joe Biden and his son Hunter Biden regarding bribery and money laundering have raised concerns about public trust in the executive branch of the government.
-
The “Crossfire Hurricane” Scandal: The “Crossfire Hurricane” scandal involving the DOJ and FBI has raised questions about the integrity of law enforcement agencies and the potential misuse of power for political purposes, further eroding public trust in these institutions.
-
Lawfare Against former President and Candidate TRUMP: A two tiered judicial system has become evident in the recent prosecution and persecution of Donald Trump. State court DA, lawyers and judges are allegedly conduction nuisance trials (four simultaneous multi-state cases) that interfere with his ability to campaign. Such conduct and SWAT raids on TRUMP, his residence and family undermines public trust of law enforcement and the judicial system.
Consequences: Violations of public trust have far-reaching consequences. They undermine the legitimacy of our institutions, erode social cohesion, and hinder our ability to work together for the common good. They also lead to a loss of faith in the government and the democratic process.
The Constitution provides a framework for punishing those who violate the public trust, but the specifics depend on the nature and severity of the offense. For example, crimes like fraud, embezzlement, and corruption can be prosecuted under federal law, with penalties ranging from fines to imprisonment. In some cases, individuals may also face civil lawsuits from those they’ve harmed.
In the case of elected officials, they may be subject to impeachment and removal from office. The Constitution provides a mechanism for impeachment for “high crimes and misdemeanors,” which includes offenses like bribery, treason, and other abuses of power.
Ultimately, the punishment for violating the public trust should be proportional to the harm caused and serve as a deterrent to future misconduct. It’s not just about holding individuals accountable; it’s about reaffirming our commitment to the principles of transparency, accountability, and the rule of law.
In conclusion, the sanctity of public trust is the cornerstone of a healthy and functioning society. Violating this trust has severe consequences, and those who do so must be held accountable under the law. By upholding the principles of justice and integrity, we can help restore and maintain the public’s faith in our institutions and each other.
STATESMANSHIP SCHOOL CURRICULUM
Voter preference for graduates of a proposed school of statesmanship is essential to ensure elevated standards and effectiveness in political leadership. By prioritizing candidates who have received formal education and training in statesmanship, voters can be confident in their representatives’ deep understanding of constitutional principles, ethical decision-making, and effective leadership strategies.
This preference reinforces the importance of not violating the public trust, promoting transparency, integrity, and accountability, and ultimately fostering a government that upholds the highest standards and acts in the best interest of the people. The curriculum should increase in complexity and time for each level from local to state and regional schools of statesmanship.
NOTE: This text is open sourced and FREE to modify. May be used as a basis of discussion and development of a degreed program of education.
PROPOSED SCHOOLS OF STATESMANSHIP
The two-year Statesmanship Degree offers a more focused and condensed curriculum, providing students with a foundational understanding of key concepts and skills related to statesmanship. It allows for a quicker entry into the workforce or further education, which can be advantageous for individuals looking for expedited career opportunities or those seeking to enhance their knowledge in a shorter timeframe. Additionally, the two-year degree can be more cost-effective compared to a four-year degree.
The four-year statesmanship degree offers a more comprehensive and in-depth exploration of the subjects relevant to statesmanship. It provides students with a broader understanding of political science, ethics, leadership, constitutional law, and policy analysis. The additional time allows for a deeper engagement with the concepts, more opportunities for internships, research projects, and networking, and the potential for a higher level of expertise and specialization in statesmanship. A four-year degree also provides a more traditional educational experience with a wider range of elective options and extracurricular involvement.
When comparing the two-year and four-year statesmanship degrees, it becomes evident that both pathways have their distinct benefits. The two-year degree offers a focused and efficient route to acquiring foundational knowledge and skills, while the four-year degree provides a more comprehensive and holistic educational experience. The two-year degree may be well-suited for those seeking to enter the workforce quickly or those with specific career goals in mind, whereas the four-year degree offers a deeper understanding and a broader range of opportunities for personal and professional growth. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on individual goals, circumstances, and preferences.
Professional Standards Of Statesmanship
-
Ethical Integrity: Uphold the highest standards of ethical conduct, ensuring that actions prioritize public service over profit-driven motives and align with the principles of the constitutional republic.
-
Constitutional Commitment: Demonstrate a deep understanding and respect for the U.S. Constitution, using it as a guiding framework for decision-making and policy implementation.
-
Public Welfare Focus: Prioritize the well-being and interests of the public over profit-driven objectives, striving to improve the lives of citizens and protect their individual rights within the bounds of the Constitution.
-
Responsible Stewardship: Exercise responsible management of public resources, ensuring transparency and accountability in financial matters and making decisions that align with the principles of the constitutional republic.
-
Inclusive Governance: Promote inclusivity and equality, embracing diverse perspectives and actively working to reduce disparities and discrimination within the constitutional framework.
-
Ethical Leadership: Display leadership that is guided by ethical principles, emphasizing transparency, integrity, and accountability in decision-making and setting an example for others.
-
Balancing Profit and Public Service: Navigate the complex ethical challenges that arise when balancing profit-driven interests with the responsibility of serving the public, always placing public welfare and constitutional principles as the primary considerations.
-
Adherence to Rule of Law: Uphold the rule of law, ensuring that policies and actions are grounded in legal frameworks, respecting individual rights, and avoiding abuses of power.
-
Engaging in Diplomacy: Embrace diplomacy as a means to foster international cooperation, understanding, and respect, advancing the interests of the United States while upholding ethical principles and the constitutional republic.
-
Commitment to Lifelong Learning: Strive for continuous learning and growth, staying informed about evolving ethical dilemmas, legal interpretations, and best practices in statesmanship within the context of the constitutional republic.
PROPOSED TWO YEAR STATESMANSHIP DEGREE
Our Two-Year curriculum maintains a focus on the ethics of profit vs. service and the constitutional republic, providing an introductory understanding of political science, ethics, leadership, and constitutional law. It offers students an opportunity to explore the ethical dimensions of statesmanship, while also grounding them in the principles and values that underpin the constitutional republic of the United States.
Year 1:
Introduction to Political Science: Provides an overview of political systems and theories, with a specific focus on the constitutional republic model of the United States.
Ethics in Public Service: Explores the ethical considerations and dilemmas that arise when balancing profit-driven motives with the responsibility of serving the public interest.
Public Speaking and Persuasion: Develops effective communication and presentation skills to articulate ethical principles, engage in public discourse, and advocate for service-oriented leadership.
Constitutional Law and Governance: Studies the U.S. Constitution, examining the principles of limited government, separation of powers, and individual rights that shape the constitutional republic.
Year 2:
Leadership Ethics: Explores ethical theories and frameworks for decision-making, focusing on the principles of ethical leadership in a service-oriented context.
Policy Analysis and Implementation: Examines the process of policymaking and the ethical considerations involved in prioritizing public service over profit-driven interests.
American Political Thought: Analyzes the ethical foundations of American political thought, studying influential thinkers and their ideas on liberty, justice, and public service.
Constitutional Law: Delves deeper into constitutional law, examining landmark Supreme Court cases that have shaped the balance between profit, service, and individual rights.
For the Two-Year Statesman Degree: Internship: Legislative Affairs Intern Description: This internship provides students with the opportunity to gain hands-on experience in legislative affairs within a government agency or legislative office. Interns will assist in researching and analyzing legislative proposals, drafting policy briefs, attending committee hearings, and supporting the legislative process. They will have the chance to observe the intersection of policy development, ethics, and the constitutional republic, while also learning about the practical aspects of public service and governance.
Please note that the availability of specific internships may vary based on location, institution, and organizations. Students are encouraged to explore internships that align with their interests and goals, seeking opportunities that provide practical experience, ethical considerations, and a connection to the principles of statesmanship.
PROPOSED FOUR YEAR STATESMANSHIP DEGREE
Our Four-Year curriculum places a specific emphasis on the ethics of profit vs. service, while also grounding students in the constitutional republic framework of the United States. It integrates history, political science, ethics, constitutional law, leadership, and public administration to foster an understanding of statesmanship that prioritizes public welfare, ethical conduct, and the responsible balance between political and profit-driven interests and the service of the people.
Year 1:
Introduction to Political Science: Provides an overview of political systems and theories, with a specific focus on the constitutional republic model of the United States.
Ethics in Public Service: Explores the ethical considerations and dilemmas that arise when balancing profit-driven motives with the responsibility of serving the public interest.
Public Speaking and Persuasion: Develops effective communication and presentation skills to articulate ethical principles, engage in public discourse, and advocate for service-oriented leadership.
Constitutional Law and Governance: Studies the U.S. Constitution, examining the principles of limited government, separation of powers, and individual rights that shape the constitutional republic.
Year 2:
Leadership Ethics: Explores ethical theories and frameworks for decision-making, focusing on the principles of ethical leadership in a service-oriented context.
Policy Analysis and Implementation: Examines the process of policy-making and the ethical considerations involved in prioritizing public service over profit-driven interests.
American Political Thought: Analyzes the ethical foundations of American political thought, studying influential thinkers and their ideas on liberty, justice, and public service.
Constitutional Law: Delves deeper into constitutional law, examining landmark Supreme Court cases that have shaped the balance between profit, service, and individual rights.
Year 3:
Strategic Leadership: Explores strategic thinking and planning in the context of service-oriented leadership, emphasizing ethical decision-making and long-term vision and diplomacy.
Public Administration and Ethics: Studies the principles of public administration with a focus on ethical practices, accountability, and the responsible management of public resources.
Economic Policy and Social Justice: Explores the ethical implications of economic policies, analyzing their impact on social justice, income inequality, and the balance between profit and service.
Capstone Project in Statesmanship: Undertakes a research project or internship that integrates the principles of ethical leadership, the constitutional republic, and the balancing of profit and service.
Year 4:
American Foreign Policy and Ethics: Examines the ethical dimensions of American foreign policy, exploring the balance between national interest, global responsibilities, the importance of diplomacy, and ethical conduct.
Constitutional Law and Contemporary Issues: Explores how constitutional principles apply to current issues, including debates on profit-driven industries, public welfare, and individual rights.
Leadership in Public Service: Explores advanced leadership theories and practices, emphasizing the ethical responsibilities of statesmen in promoting public welfare and navigating profit-driven interests.
Seminar in Statesmanship Ethics: Engages in in-depth discussions and case studies, analyzing ethical dilemmas faced by statesmen and exploring strategies for upholding ethical principles in service-oriented leadership.
For the Four-Year Statesmanship Degree: Internship:
Public Policy Think Tank Research Intern Description: This internship is designed to provide students with exposure to policy research and analysis within a reputable public policy think tank. Interns will contribute to research projects focused on pressing policy issues, conduct literature reviews, analyze data, and assist in preparing policy reports and recommendations. This internship will offer students the opportunity to deepen their understanding of statesmanship principles, ethical decision-making, and the constitutional republic, while also engaging in high-level policy discourse and shaping public policy conversations.
Please note that the availability of specific internships may vary based on location, institution, and organizations. Students are encouraged to explore internships that align with their interests and goals, seeking opportunities that provide practical experience, ethical considerations, and a connection to the principles of statesmanship.
Statesman’s Pledge
As a Statesman of the United States, I pledge to uphold ethical integrity, prioritizing the public welfare over profit. I will honor the constitutional republic, ensuring transparency and accountability in my actions, while safeguarding the welfare of the aged and infirm. I commit to fostering open communication and providing clear information, without accepting special interest money or other forms of pre and post-tenure value, in order to maintain the highest level of public trust and serve the best interests of the American people.