Principle Perspective with Mike Winther

Since its inception in 2005, the Institute for Principle Studies has examined government from a perspective of principle over pragmatism, hope over discouragement, and the recognition of the Lordship of Jesus Christ over every area of life. This podcast will continue that mission of providing valuable teaching in the areas of government, economics, and history.

Biblical Principles of Government (7a) 05/01/2024

Biblical Principles of Government (7a) In this discussion, Mike Winther explores the significant topic of charity. Mike approaches this subject with caution to ensure that our actions align not only with our intentions but also with what God intends. He discusses the arguments for both large and small government structures, highlighting two main reasons why government expansion occurs. Mike examines what the Bible says about charity and assisting the poor, and he contrasts God’s model of charity with that of Karl Marx. Additionally, Mike addresses the issue of inflation, the increase in the money supply, and rising prices. We learn how inflation lowers the standard of living and serves as another means of wealth redistribution. The discussion also covers the influence of the wealthy and the pivotal meeting at Jekyll Island that led to the establishment of the Federal Reserve. Often, the solutions we devise are part of the problem itself. We further explore how inflation negatively impacts savings. You’ll Learn: [01:03] What happens when we increase the money supply? [02:34] Inflation reduces our standard of living and is another method of redistribution of wealth. [03:16] Inflation is a hidden tax and even a moral evil. [09:08] Mike talks about the private rail car taking the wealthy men who established the Federal Reserve to Jekyll Island. This gives monopoly control over our currency and interest rates to the semi-public semi-private institution. [10:41] The Federal Reserve Act was sold as something to help the little guy. It actually did just the opposite. [12:55] Mike talks about campaign finance reforms and how they backfired. It led to longer terms of office for the incumbents. [16:17] Mike shares a hypothetical scenario that compares kids stealing a widows savings to losing savings when inflation is higher than interest rates. [18:14] We have an ethical obligation to do something when we know an evil is occurring. [21:01] Mike talks about how the government finances deficits. Methods include bonds, borrowing from foreign investors, and having the Federal Reserve create money in exchange for a bond. [26:14] Debt is a bad thing. [27:21] There's a battle over the size of the government. [28:08] When people's safety feels threatened they allow the government to get bigger. We also expand government to help the poor. [29:09] Who gets charity? Who gives charity? What are the standards for charity? [30:03] Deuteronomy 10:17 through 19. Deuteronomy 14:28. Deuteronomy 24:19. [38:10] The practical applications of this course are going to multiply. It's always a good idea to look at principles. [42:26] Should we be forced to pay for someone else's education against our will? [46:30] Is there a right to freedom of movement? What are the circumstances where you could legitimately reject someone from coming here? [46:57] Individualism says the individual is most important. Collectivism says the group is most important. Your Resources: /episode/index/show/a30efedc-46c2-4468-9d6e-2f5c49c640f3/id/31067668

Biblical Principles of Government (6b) 04/24/2024

Biblical Principles of Government (6b) This episode of the series begins by discussing the 2007 and 2008 housing bubble, a topic that remains highly relevant today. During that period, prices were skyrocketing and interest rates were low, leading people to refinance and sink deeper into debt. When the collapse occurred, proponents of big government blamed the free market and called for increased regulation. Mike dives into the causes of this housing bubble, highlighting the manipulation of interest rates, the pricing of money, and the economic stimulation by the Federal Reserve. He discusses how low interest rates and the selling of loan bundles led to the ultimate collapse, emphasizing that government control over the economy tends to exaggerate normal economic fluctuations. Mike explains why Keynesian economics exacerbates inflationary periods. The episode also explores the pitfalls of government banking systems and discusses why these issues should be of concern from a Christian perspective. Mike further analyzes economic principles such as supply and demand before shifting focus to healthcare. He describes how government actions increased demand and how third-party payers escalated spending. We also learn Mike’s solutions to these problems, consistently linking back to a biblical viewpoint. You’ll Learn: [00:50] In 2007 and 2008, the price of real estate was escalating rapidly. Interest rates were low and people were refinancing and taking cash out. [01:44] Whenever there's an economic problem, there's a battle between those who want big government and those who want small government. [02:01] Dropping interest rates and more people can buy. Rates kept dropping. They were manipulating interest rates or the price of money. [04:58] In free markets, interest rates go up and down and draw money in and out of banks. It balances the economy. [08:41] Why were lenders making bad lending decisions? An example. [14:37] Why 0% interest rates contribute to bad loans. [16:54] When rates drop, people buy more houses. When people stop buying, the economy begins to slow. [17:57] When people with high debt were unable to pay their loans, it began a chain reaction. [18:34] Keynesian economics makes the trenches deeper and the inflationary periods worse. [20:37] Mike talks about government required reserve ratios for banks and the government taking over banks. [23:33] Mike breaks down supply and demand and how prices work. [24:52] If healthcare prices are going up, demand is exceeding supply. [26:05] How the government limits the supply of doctors in America. [28:42] We have a scarcity of doctors, and they are working more hours. [29:30] Medicaid passed in 1967 or 1968. Demand went up and prices increased. Medicare was also passed. [32:20] When there's a third party payer, we're never as cautious about how we spend the money. [33:55] Insurance only makes sense, when we insure the unlikely. [36:34] The number of people hired for ObamaCare was greater than the number of doctors and nurses in America. [37:33] We need more people to buy their own insurance. [40:21] Mike shares another example. Your Resources: /episode/index/show/a30efedc-46c2-4468-9d6e-2f5c49c640f3/id/30965318

Biblical Principles of Government (6a) 04/17/2024

Biblical Principles of Government (6a) Mike Winther kicks off Section 6a of "Biblical Principles of Government" with a poignant quote from Thomas Jefferson: "It's strangely absurd to suppose that a million human beings collected together are not under the same moral laws which bind each of them separately." This assertion underlines the principle of The Collective Application of God's Commands. Mike dives into the concepts of individualism and collectivism, explaining individualism as dealing with individuals, whereas collectivism addresses the group as a whole. He highlights the role of government as a collective entity that represents and governs all citizens. In searching for principles to guide government, he points out that Scripture offers clear guidelines on what government should and should not do. He also asserts that God's commands and guidance to individuals also apply to groups, emphasizing that what applies to the individual should also apply to the collective, unless scripture specifies otherwise. You’ll Learn: [00:34] "It's strangely absurd to suppose that a million human beings collected together are not under the same moral laws which bind each of them separately." Thomas Jefferson [01:06] The principal of The Collective Application of God's Commands. [01:28] Individualism is when we deal with individuals. Collectivism is dealing with the whole. [01:39] Government is a collective that represents all of the citizens and rules all of the citizens. [01:48] We often look for principles to guide the government. There are principles in Scripture that give guidelines for what the government should and should not do. [01:57] God's commands and guidance to us as individuals also applies to us as groups. We can assert what applies to the individual applies to the collective unless scripture specifically states otherwise. [02:34] Capital punishment is given as an authority to civil government. [03:10] An example of individual versus collective. [08:48] Socialism places limits on the ownership of private property. [09:19] We need to understand the idea of economic loss. The more goods and services we produce will result in the price going down. [14:02] We produce for a number of reasons including its built into our DNA and it mimics God. We can help others by producing more and giving them the fruit of our labor. [20:25] Contrasting the loyalty of serving your fellow man or being given things by the government. [23:49] The philosophical schools of economics: The classical school of economics includes teachings by Adam Smith. A partial free market scenario. [25:29] The Keynesian School of Economics from John Maynard Keynes. The government needs to manage and control the economy. Stimulation and slowing down an economy and having a central bank came from Keynes. [26:46] The Neoclassical School of Economics is kind of between the other two. [26:58] The Chicago School of Economics comes from the University of Chicago. The father of this school is Milton Friedman. He says government intervention is damaging the economy and moves closer to a free market model. [27:41] The Austrian School of Economics. Pure free market economics. [30:00] Mike talks about environmental issues and economics. [39:41] Using government policy to choose winners and losers. [44:54] Ethanol is a net negative energy source. [46:42] Debt and deficits. [53:38] Jobs are not the measure of our well-being, it's the goods and services that we have. [54:45] Mike talks a little bit about monopolies. Your Resources: /episode/index/show/a30efedc-46c2-4468-9d6e-2f5c49c640f3/id/30854733

Biblical Principles of Government (5b) 04/10/2024

Biblical Principles of Government (5b) Last week, Mike Winther discussed the biblical view of property, the definition of property, and the question of whether private property should even exist. Throughout this series of lectures, he has been using the example of an island to illustrate each concept. Today, we return to the island to vote on redistributing money from the island's wealthy family to its poorer counterpart. In essence, our island has adopted a somewhat socialist approach, redistributing wealth from the rich to the poor. This change necessitates the introduction of an IRS agent and a social worker, leading to decreased production. Winther continues by demonstrating the impact of varying governmental forms on the real economy. We explore concepts such as distributional and motivational loss. Mike dives into discussions on charity, the socialist model, and biblical principles aimed at preventing the vicious cycle of loss. He also outlines the reasons socialism is considered flawed, both biblically and in practical terms. Eventually, he comes back to the importance of property rights. You’ll Learn: [00:43] One family on the island is highly productive. They are rich. There's also a poor family who isn't as productive. [01:40] Our system then becomes socialist where we take from the rich and give to the poor. [02:35] We then have to audit the productivity of every family on the island. [03:27] One person is in charge of redistributing wealth. [04:45] Removing one family to be the redistributors of wealth creates less for everyone, because that family isn't productive anymore. [07:59] 40% of Americans are employed redistributing wealth. [08:37] Socialist economies have motivational loss and distribution loss. [11:31] The Socialist model for taking care of the poor reduces economic capacity. [12:10] We need to understand why there is poverty. [14:24] Socialism violates property rights. [15:07] Three of The Ten Commandments actually assume a positive role of private property. [23:14] Mike discusses a Biblical example of voluntary gifts of wealth. [23:57] The free market is voluntary. Karl Marx and socialism are mandatory. [24:09] Reasons why socialism is wrong: 1. It violates property rights. 2. Requires the government to operate outside its bounds. 3. There's no God in the system. [27:29] Why are people poor? They're poor because of poor governmental systems and the economy's created by those systems. [28:14] How to create poverty. Have a government that makes it hard to accumulate tools or excess production. Without property rights and holding title, improvements can lead to confiscation. [30:03] Mike talks about the dangers of inflating the money supply. [31:08] Contracts need to be enforced in order to grow wealth. [32:00] We are poor with socialist governments. We are poor with no property rights. [32:40] Our founding fathers said the most important right was the right to property. [36:56] Governmental regulations can sometimes be used to pass the buck. [37:50] Having the government solve every problem is the definition of statism. [38:44] A Laissez-faire economy is a leave us alone economy or free market. [44:16] How a market economy is able to actually create goods. The term is called the invisible hand or the hand of God. Your Resources: /episode/index/show/a30efedc-46c2-4468-9d6e-2f5c49c640f3/id/30765578

Biblical Principles of Government (5a) 04/03/2024

Biblical Principles of Government (5a) In the words of Samuel Adams, one of the fathers of the American Revolution, The natural rights of the colonists are these: first, a right to life; secondly, to liberty; thirdly, to property; and lastly, to support and defend them in the best manner they can. Our journey began with the theme of origins, followed by the theme of nature. Tonight, we turn our attention to property. We will explore the biblical view of property, define what property is, discuss how we manage property, and debate whether private property should exist. We dive into the multifaceted concept of property through a lens both ancient and enduring—the biblical perspective. We'll explore the significance of property, the principles of managing it, and the pivotal question of its ownership. Should there be private property, or not? These are the crucial topics we will dive into tonight as we continue with lectures from Mike Winther’s class on Biblical Principles of Government. You’ll Learn: [01:34] Five government systems: monarchy, oligarchy, democracy, republic, and anarchy. [01:57] Communism isn't a governmental system, it's an economic system. [02:07] There are only two economic systems. These are the free market and socialism. All other economic systems are a subset of these two. [02:34] A free market consists of voluntary actions and voluntary trade. [03:03] Socialism is an economic system that does have government involvement. [03:33] The free market is a voluntary system and socialism is an involuntary system. [04:37] The free market consists of voluntary exchange without the government being involved, but there is government enforcement of contracts. [05:27] A contract is a non-governmental agreement between two parties. Contracts are made without the government, but the government has a role enforcing contracts. [07:15] We have socialism if we have government controlled capital or forced redistribution of wealth. [10:15] In America, we have a blended system which is part free market and part socialism. [10:56] Karl Marx is the modern father of communism. He wrote The Communist Manifesto. [11:27] According to Marx, a communist is a person who wants socialism. [12:45] Socialism and communism believe that property is mutually owned. Socialism places limits on private ownership of property. [15:26] The redistribution slogan of Karl Marx. [16:40] There are political systems and economic systems. [27:00] You can tell by the work on the roadways that the government is planning for the future to make it more difficult for people to take private transportation. [29:43] We need to ask ourselves if our vote is more public sector or private sector and make a decision about which one we want to support. [32:42] Freedom of physical movement is a big part of freedom of speech. [35:31] Marx was an advocate of publicly funded schools. Is a public school socialist institution? Who finances it? Redistribution of wealth? [37:37] Mike goes back to the island example to show how economic systems work. [46:49] Who is hurt the most by a price increase? The poor. That's goods and services and the price goes up. Your Resources: /episode/index/show/a30efedc-46c2-4468-9d6e-2f5c49c640f3/id/30630963

Biblical Principles of Government (4b) 03/27/2024

Biblical Principles of Government (4b) In this section of Mike Winther’s class on Biblical Principles of Government. Mike dives into economics with the goal of making economics useful to us. We explore the strategies communist leader Khrushchev purportedly advocated for undermining our economy through the gradual introduction of socialism. Mike emphasizes how societal readiness for change often emerges from discontent with the current state of affairs, suggesting that instigating dissatisfaction is a precursor to change. The lecture covers both microeconomics and macroeconomics, with Mike providing a tangible example of microeconomic principles at play on a deserted island. He discusses concepts such as capital, tools, and surplus production, underscoring the notion that there is nothing inherently wrong with seeking to improve one's standard of living—a pursuit even encouraged by the Bible. Furthermore, Mike addresses the topics of exchange, trade, specialization, and the capacity to fulfill the needs of a community. It’s possible that this lecture is even more relevant now, then when it was first given. You’ll Learn: [01:11] You can accomplish a lot if you don't care who gets the credit. You can accomplish a lot if you're not in too big of a hurry. [01:36] Being fed small doses of socialism until we wake up and find out we already have communism. [02:01] There are groups and individuals who intentionally want to weaken the economy. [03:01] People accept change when things aren't going well. You have to have a problem in order to be able to implement a solution. [03:38] If you want to make change, you have to make it so things aren't going well. [03:54] Economics comes from two Greek words which means the law of the house. It's the policies of running the house. [04:35] Microeconomics or the economics of a household or firm or something small. [06:38] Macroeconomics is the study of something bigger like a whole nation. [07:17] Market friendly econ schools will want you to take microeconomics first. Big government leaning schools will want you to take macroeconomics first. [08:30] Understanding the principles of microeconomics, a student won't fall for the big government macroeconomics. [15:51] Means of production: Capital or tools. Capital is also excess production. [21:47] There's nothing wrong with material wealth or improving your standard of living. [26:51] Specialization matters. We can't have specialization without trade. [30:59] Trade without money is called barter. [36:19] As the island grows bartering becomes a problem, because the trade overhead is too high. [39:29] Money needs to be durable and divisible. [43:44] Inflation is an increase in the money supply. As the money supply increases, prices go up. [48:36] Intrinsic value or something that will always have value. [50:21] There's no inherent scarcity in paper money. Governments can print more of it. [55:26] Inflation is like stealing. [56:25] 1st Samuel chapter 8: When the king demands 10% you will be slaves. [59:46] Economic issues are moral, ethical, and biblical issues. Your Resources: /episode/index/show/a30efedc-46c2-4468-9d6e-2f5c49c640f3/id/30492663

Biblical Principles of Government (4a) 03/20/2024

Biblical Principles of Government (4a) Welcome to Section 4a of Mike Winther's continuing lecture series on the Biblical Principles of Government. In this segment, Mike embarks on an examination of Samuel Chapter 8, focusing on the events following the Israelites' entry into the promised land, which was preceded by a significant 40-year period of wandering in the wilderness. This period began after the Israelites sent spies to scout the land of Canaan, and, upon receiving a discouraging report, the majority chose not to trust in God’s promise. Contrarily, only two spies, Caleb and Joshua, remained optimistic and faithful to God's guidance. Despite their positive report, the Israelites sided with the majority, leading to God's decree that they would wander in the desert for 40 years until a new, faithful generation arose. This lecture explores how, after finally entering the promised land, the Israelites experienced the period of the Judges, marking a shift towards a decentralized form of government. Mike highlights how scripture offers both spiritual lessons and insights into governmental principles, illustrating the times of righteous judges and kings. The discussion raises a critical question: Which form of government did God prefer? The answer, as Mike reveals, is found in Samuel 8. Throughout the series, Mike shares numerous examples of scriptural passages that reflect political statements. He delves into the negative consequences of monarchical rule, the benefits of decentralized power, and strategies to limit the expansion of government. This episode promises to be an eye-opener, shedding light on the intricate relationship between biblical teachings and governance. You’ll Learn: [00:38] 1st Samuel chapter 8. The spies came back with a negative report and discouraged the children of Israel from wanting to take the Promised Land. [04:56] Caleb and Joshua were more optimistic because they knew they had got on their side. [05:45] 40 years later, they learned that the people they were going to attack were afraid of them because they had got on their side. [06:29] The period of the judges. This was a centralized government with a lot of leaders. [08:35] There were periods of time when certain judges ruled and the people were righteous. There were more years of righteousness than people doing what was right in their own eyes. [09:26] There are far more righteous judges listed in Hebrews than there were righteous kings. [12:16] The colonists declared independence from the King of England in 1776 and restored God as the real king. [15:05] Curses of bad government. The king will take your sons and make them serve. He will take your daughters, the best of your fields, and your vineyards. Also a tenth of your grain and your vintage. [19:41] No government would try to tax more than 9%. [21:21] There are a lot of passages of scripture that are actually political statements. [22:42] If you understand the sin nature of man you want decentralized power. [23:16] Civil government is bigger than it ought to be. [23:41] Ways to limit the expansion of government. [24:02] Understand the origins of rights and authority. God is the source of authority, we should go to scripture to find out what the government can and can't do. [26:34] Good laws limit government. The horizontal separation of powers. Isaiah 3:22. [33:19] The chasm between ideals and reality. [35:22] What fuels the growth of government money and dependence. [38:31] We need a vision to not depend on the government. [39:55] We limit government by the watchful eye of the people. [40:10] Public Choice Theory analyzes how the government grows. Your Resources: /episode/index/show/a30efedc-46c2-4468-9d6e-2f5c49c640f3/id/30369143

Biblical Principles of Government (3b) 03/13/2024

Biblical Principles of Government (3b) Mike Winther continues his series of lectures on the Biblical Principles of Government. Today, we dive into the sources of authority. God is identified as a source of authority, a truth we understand through scripture. The Bible is also proposed as the foundation for authority within family governance, as well as in civil and church contexts. If God is not considered the source of authority, then who or what would fill that role? He discusses democracy and the principle of majority rule. Mike draws a distinction between large-scale (big) government and small-scale (small) government, indicating which source of authority each tends to favor. He also explores the differences between conservatives and liberals, and addresses the nuances of neo-conservatism within the contexts of Republican and Democratic ideologies. The aim is to transcend labels and maintain a focus on the issues. This series represents a thought-provoking journey through our political systems, beliefs, and historical contexts. You’ll Learn: [00:41] God is a source of authority. We know that through scripture. The Bible should also be the source of family government authority. [02:00] Church and civil government also get its authority from God. [02:26] Biblically church, family, and state are three separate institutions. [03:12] In the Bible, kings receive wrath from doing the duty of God's priest. [04:21] The debate is about the source of authority. [04:50] Some want to build a wall between civil authority and God. [05:59] If you favor small government, you're probably happy with God being the source of authority. Big government wants the majority to be the source of authority. [07:58] For society to run well, we need good family government, good church government, and good civil government. [10:49] On the left, we have communists and socialists. On the right, we have dictators and Nazis. [11:47] Relativism gets us with the use of language. [16:33] A conservative is one who conserves. Liberals want change. [26:43] Neo conservatives will accept big government and not be shy about it. Your Resources: /episode/index/show/a30efedc-46c2-4468-9d6e-2f5c49c640f3/id/30352413

Biblical Principles of Government (3a) 03/06/2024

Biblical Principles of Government (3a) This podcast is a continuation of Mike Winthers series of lectures on biblical principles in government. This is the first half of the third part. You can find links to the previous lectures below. Mike kicks off this lecture with questions about the nature and challenges of democracy. He begins with some interesting quotes from the book, Financial Reckoning Day. "Mobs can only hold simple ideas in their minds. Ideas so belittled by the dumbing down process that they are a little more than myths. That was as true of democracy as it was of communism. The important point is that democracy allows for increased participation in politics and it spoils." What does this mean? Isn't democracy the best form of government? Mike raises some interesting questions about democracy and how we should implement our governmental systems. We need to understand how to have a system that is based on scripture and follows God's principles of government. You’ll Learn: [00:39] Mike talks about the book, Financial Reckoning Day. Some of the information isn't relevant anymore but he talks about the idea of democracies. [01:34] "Mobs can only hold simple ideas in their minds. Ideas so belittled by the dumbing down process that they are a little more than myths. That was as true of democracy as it was of communism. The important point is that democracy allows for increased participation in politics and it spoils." [02:08] Democracy increases participation in politics. Democracy also increases participation in the spoils. [03:12] The author's hypothesis is that the most tyrannical form of government is not a monarchy. He's going to say it's not an oligarchy. He's going to say that the most radical form of government is a democracy. [04:11] Mass participation makes the government more tyrannical and more resistant to change. Alexis de Tocqueville also agreed with this. [05:19] Tyrant Kings didn't have the resources to widely enforce their edicts. [05:49] Democracy invites people into the governing class and turns them into unpaid agents of the government and makes them their own oppressors. [06:09] In a democracy, citizens are part of the government by voting. This system makes us more willing to accept the outcome of the majority. [07:06] Mike quotes Alexis de Tocqueville. [09:01] In the 1800s, there was a view to push America towards a democracy as opposed to a Republic. [11:21] The Plato versus Paul difference on the sin nature of man. [13:14] We have three branches of government and the legislative branch is broken down into the House and the Senate. [14:31] Isaiah 33:22. [15:41] Are presidents actually elected? Don't forget about the Electoral College. [16:03] Each state gets a certain number of electors that choose the president. This number of electors is based on the number of Senate seats and the number of House seats. There are always two senators. [17:28] George Washington was chosen by the Electoral College which usually consisted of the retired legislature. [18:36] 48 of our 50 states now choose electors by popular vote. [27:16] By design, the Supreme Court has the least accountability of any of the legislative bodies. [28:05] The idea of relative power. The founding fathers did not intend separate but equal. [28:48] The Constitution grants the power of each body. It's a doctrine of enumerated powers which means it lists the powers of each branch of government. [30:21] The founding fathers understood that there was a problem with having a king. There is value in having a strong chief executive. [35:30] Mike talks about the idea of having a mixed form of government with accountability and what the founding fathers originally intended. [42:07] There's a clear distinction between power and the authorization of power. Previous lectures have focused on power and authority. [45:07] Political parties control the delegates. [46:34] George Washington talked about the dangers of political parties. Like-minded people get together. [50:21] Political parties control the primary process. The rules vary from state to state. [51:09] Mike talks about the pitfalls of empowering the political parties too much. Your Resources: /episode/index/show/a30efedc-46c2-4468-9d6e-2f5c49c640f3/id/30182653

Biblical Principles of Government (2b) 02/28/2024

Biblical Principles of Government (2b) Romans chapter 13 is constantly used to say that Christians, or citizens in general, should always obey the civil authorities. There's a whole series of debates that come out of this. When is it proper for a Christian to obey authority? Is it ever proper to rebel against authority? Our founding fathers were constantly debating whether it was legitimate for those with a Christian worldview to rebel against the king. Mike Winther continues his lecture on Biblical principles of government in this recording of the fourth episode in this series. He talks about concepts like power versus authority. Then he goes into the five forms of government. It goes back to the Bible and God being the source of authority. This is about understanding scripture being critical to political science if we want to have a Christian worldview. You’ll Learn: [01:22] Mike reads Romans 13. This chapter is the proof test of where our authority comes from. Our source of rights comes from God. Government authority comes from God. [02:02] You can read this as every authority and power has been put there by God or the only legitimate authority comes from God. [02:32] Power is the ability to make something happen. Authority is being authorized to do something. What is the government authorized to do and does it have enough power to do it? [05:52] There are five forms of government. A monarchy is a rule of one. [08:35] An oligarchy is a rule by an elite few. This is one of the most common forms of government on the planet. [10:32] A democracy is ruled by the majority. Typically majorities don't always have a mind of their own. The real rulers are those who control the opinions of the majority like education and the media. [12:53] The next form of government is a republic. This is the rule by law. Our founding fathers intended for us to be a republic. [16:04] Is a rule by law the best system of government? That would depend on the laws. [16:23] The last system of government is anarchy which is ruled by no one. This is a temporary state, because it creates a vacuum. [18:04] Mike talks about different sources of law. [24:58] John Wycliffe, the father of the English Bible. [26:11] The Bible is a source of authority. [26:50] If there is no God, then there is no liberty. This is where political science is critical to understanding scripture. [27:26] Proving the necessity of God if you want to have a government. We need a non-human source for our rights. [28:14] God is the source of law and above it. [32:03] As Christians, we need to think through our logic on some of these issues. Your Resources: /episode/index/show/a30efedc-46c2-4468-9d6e-2f5c49c640f3/id/30145718

Biblical Principles of Government (2a) 02/21/2024

Biblical Principles of Government (2a) This lecture revolves around the theme of nature. Mike Winther talks about the nature of man and the nature of God. What is the true essence of man and God? He also talks about the nature or essence of government. We are in a battle of world views that include theological, political, and economic aspects. Throughout history there has been a battle of ideas. Mike highlights how knowing ourselves and knowing our enemies helps us take a strong stance on our own worldviews and how they are related to biblical principles. He dives into telling God’s truth and being a strong part of God’s team as we go about our lives. You’ll Learn: [00:50] What is the nature or essence of man and God? What is the nature of government? [01:31] There's always been a battle of ideas. [02:11] There's been a clash of world views from Adam and Eve and all through ancient history to modern history. [03:06] The Great Deceiver is out there and has always wanted to deceive us in all areas of life. [04:45] Matthew chapter 16. [11:48] Christians ought to be a player on God's team. [15:04] How the Gates of Hell will not prevail. Gates is a defensive tool. Satan is on the defense and won't endure against the church. [19:26] The founding fathers established a society that believes that our rights come from God. [23:49] Is our government decision-making practical or principled? Practical decision making is based upon the knowledge of man. [29:00] The Judeo-Christian perspective of man having a sin nature. Plato rejected this philosophy. He believed that man was essentially good. [30:46] If man is good, how do you explain evil? The answer for Plato was the environment. [34:40] The flaws with Plato's premise. Power tends to corrupt and absolute power corrupts absolutely. [39:41] The tool of the civil government is the sword. Governments exist to use force. According to Washington, the government is force. [41:31] People in office need to know the nature of government. [42:04] Mike talks about the will of God. [44:26] God shares his desires in the Ten Commandments. We learn God's precepts, but he still allows these things. [46:00] You can have great family discussions talking about the idea of decreed versus preceptive will of God. Human events can have human causes. [50:24] We have an obligation to help the government take good actions. Your Resources: /episode/index/show/a30efedc-46c2-4468-9d6e-2f5c49c640f3/id/29955518

Biblical Principles of Government (1b) 02/14/2024

Biblical Principles of Government (1b) This lecture marks the continuation of Mike Winther's series on the Biblical Principles of Government. In the first session, Mike introduced himself and discussed his approach to influencing hearts and minds, the importance of political engagement, and the role of ethics and clear boundaries. He highlighted the Bible's capacity to guide us through these issues. This time, Mike explores the philosophical and theological foundations of order, rights, and authority, making the case that intelligence is crucial for bringing order out of chaos. He insists that the concept of a Creator is inseparable from the origins of rights and authority. By comparing different sources of rights, like government, constitutional laws, and divine intention, he strongly supports the view that rights are granted by God. He emphasizes that without recognizing a divine source, the basis for rights and authority becomes unstable leading to chaos. He also talks about the dangers of granting excessive power to governments. He argues that governmental authority and individual rights both come from God. He takes us back to the biblical principles that lead to an organized and balanced society. You’ll Learn: [00:36] Chaos or order and disorder. You can't create order from randomness without adding intelligence. [01:21] The creation and evolution debate and the idea of gender. The debate over the origins of man. [03:14] When we talk about the government, we also talk about rights. If we're going to know what they are. We need to know where they came from. [04:18] Mike shares a lecture he shared with high school kids that leads to the creator. [06:07] He began with rights and their source, because the source determines the use. [07:02] The source determines the use. Who is our source? God. [07:56] Sources of rights. Government? Majority? Constitution and Bill of Rights? No rights? Space aliens? God? [09:39] If the government gives you your rights, who can take them away? [10:36] The Source determines the use in all of these cases. [15:53] The last two choices are either space aliens or God. [16:20] This exercise has never not produced the desired outcome. [18:08] There's a pragmatic way to lead someone to say what kind of world you want to live in. [20:14] If evolution is true, then everything is the survival of the fittest. Even the human level. [21:33] Source of authority. We want the government to have proper authority. [23:44] The people aren't necessarily your source of government authority. [28:43] Taking by force is theft. Where does the authority come from? [30:15] Authority basically describes what the government can and can't do. [31:10] God is the author of authority and he tells us through scripture. [34:10] What John Adams said about our rights. Rights are derived from God. [35:24] We are endowed by our creator with certain unalienable rights. [37:16] The source of our rights must be in the same place as the source of our authority. [37:39] Rights are liberties and powers that the people have. Authority is the power that the government has. [38:37] We need the same origin for government authority and our rights. [39:13] As Christians, we need to be clear on God's word. [41:18] A caution about giving the government more power. [41:52] Should we purchase security by spending our rights? Your Resources: /episode/index/show/a30efedc-46c2-4468-9d6e-2f5c49c640f3/id/29836773

Biblical Principles of Government (1a) 02/07/2024

Biblical Principles of Government (1a) This is a recording of a class that Mike Winther gave on Biblical Principles of Government. He kicks off the show by sharing his background and how he was raised in a politically active family. He became interested in politics at a young age and was reading works by our founding fathers in junior high. Mike shares how he got a degree in political science, focused on debate, and had a goal to change the world. He worked in multiple political campaigns with the goal of making a difference and achieving positive change. He discovered that it was hard to find candidates that he trusted, and when he found them, it was impossible for them to win an election. He discovered that changing hearts and minds was key to having the best candidates and getting them elected. He talks about relativism and absolutes and finding the bright line or where you ethically cross. How do we come to our conclusions and why? The Bible has answers to these questions. Mike breaks down how to follow biblical principles and understand how they pertain to our government. You’ll Learn: [00:39] Mike shares his background and why this class exists. He was born in a Christian family in a small town in Idaho. His parents were very active in government and public affairs. [01:54] When he was 8 or 9 years old, he wanted to go to an economics conference with his dad. [04:14] A powerful time to learn is when someone is in their youth. [05:03] Mike's parents were very involved in the pro-life movement and had film strips about being pro-life, and Mike ran the slides as a kid. He ended up watching a lot of these materials repeatedly. [06:59] He was also involved in debate and majored in political science. [07:38] His first candidate was the Aqua Velva man. [09:51] We can't win office without people whose hearts and minds are sensitive to our persuasion. [10:22] Our society needs more work understanding good principles of government. [11:42] According to a large survey, people wanted help with voting like good Christians. The course, Christian Citizenship was created. [13:10] Mike eventually began the nonprofit the Institute for Principal Studies. [13:39] Education is a precursor to action. [18:14] Relativism is a philosophical concept that says there are no absolutes. [21:10] Finding the bright line. [26:04] Discussing philosophy and the nature of man with friends and neighbors. Using the decision tree and persuasion. [28:46] Finding the real source of a debate. [31:51] The God ordained government institutions in the Bible consisting of self-government, family government, church government, and civil government. [37:10] The first fork in the road with civil government is the creationism and evolution debate. [41:37] If biological evolution is true then there must be social evolution. If so, our laws will need to evolve. [46:05] Finding the real reason for the Holocaust and Hitler being a follower of Charles Darwin. [46:56] Ideas have consequences. Evolutionary thinking can be dangerous. [51:42] Oakbrook College of Law. Your Resources: /episode/index/show/a30efedc-46c2-4468-9d6e-2f5c49c640f3/id/29746093

Redeeming The Age - Analysis And Strategy 01/31/2024

Redeeming The Age - Analysis And Strategy Mike has always loved politics and public policy. His parents, who were very active in politics, surrounded him with political information from a young age. Instead of fiction, he grew up reading political books and eventually earned a degree in political science. He gained experience working in political campaigns and realized that running a successful campaign and electing a quality candidate is only a temporary victory, as elections recur. He also observed a trend towards more liberal views, moving away from biblical principles. Mike concluded that true reform requires focusing on education and changing hearts and minds. In this lecture, Mike discusses some of the critical issues our country faces and how we can return to a biblical perspective. After outlining the various challenges, he presents eight points that can help make a difference in our society. You’ll Learn: [04:24] The Ten Commandments have been removed from parks and public buildings. [05:13] Mike talks about the problems of public and private debt. He also talks about property rights, thought crimes, taxes, and many current issues. [08:40] The problem is we lack a worldview that is biblical and consistent. [12:44] Most of us are products of a secular society. We've lost the biblical worldview training that our forefathers had. [18:30] There are solutions, but we are never going to perfect our society and live in a utopia. [19:01] The Bible does give us directions on how we should live in our society. As Christians, we know that obeying scripture improves our lives. [19:28] Sometimes we fail to see the relationships between biblical principles and our problems. [22:53] At least 70 million dollars has been spent on public education in California. What does public education teach? What kind of soil are we creating with our tax dollars? [25:01] Knowledge and persuasion are the key to deal with all of our problems. We need education and discipleship. [29:01] Intellectual capital. A good strategy doesn't happen by accident. The secular standpoint does have intellectual capital. There are foundations with billions of dollars. [31:39] Repetition is the key to learning. We need to emphasize the truth and the principles behind our ideals. [34:33] Eight points we need to tackle. We need a broad Christian worldview. We need a principled approach. [35:57] A vision of the big picture. [39:53] Is the government or the church going to take care of the poor? [41:10] Repetition and reinforcement of the message. [42:11] We need a strategy not just a reaction. Research. We need to provide quality research for pastors and leaders. [47:20] We must look for and identify absolutes. There's a battle in this world between absolutism and relativism. Absolutes make decision making easier. Your Resources: /episode/index/show/a30efedc-46c2-4468-9d6e-2f5c49c640f3/id/29616473

No Shortcut, No Compromise, No Retreat 01/24/2024

No Shortcut, No Compromise, No Retreat Is education something that should be mandatory? This question has sparked debate worldwide. A significant issue arises from the fact that people often don't value what they're forced into. Take, for example, the average high school student who is compelled to attend school. Similarly, many college students eagerly await graduation, with their focus not on learning or the educational process but on the obligation to be there. In contrast, homeschoolers often exhibit a markedly different attitude, approaching education with purpose and intention. This was the central theme of a commencement speech delivered by Mike Winther at a graduation ceremony for homeschoolers. In his address, Mike imparted three pieces of advice that are not only relevant to the graduates but also to a broader audience. His inspiring speech emphasized the importance of avoiding shortcuts, not compromising on values, and never retreating in the face of challenges. You’ll Learn: [01:41] There are no shortcuts. No compromise and no retreat. [02:03] Homeschooling takes a lot of time and expense. Parents of homeschoolers pay taxes for public education, and they pay for homeschool education. [02:43] There are no shortcuts. If you want the right results, you have to take the long-term course. [03:10] The most dangerous attack is usually the most subtle attack. [04:40] Mike shares the story of Nehemiah and rebuilding the walls while under attack. [06:13] Mike shares reasons why they succeeded in spite of all the many hardships. [08:33] We'll have to make sacrifices to educate our children in a Godly way. [09:22] There are no compromises. We compromise way more often than we should. [09:44] There should be no compromise when it comes to moral principles. [10:14] The pilgrims founded Harvard University 20 years after they arrived here. The sole purpose was to train pastors and educators to spread the word of God. [10:50] Today, Harvard is a great bastion of atheism and secularism. Why? Because somebody compromised. [13:18] By 1805, Unitarians controlled the governing board of Harvard University. With compromise, the institution was given over to non-Christian theology and thought. [14:36] No retreat. [15:13] Gates are a defensive weapon. [16:57] The ultimate threat to homeschooling is going to come from people who appear to be our friends. The biggest reason to compromise is going to be your friends. [19:14] We need to be discerning and know the truth in everything we do. [20:19] We need to be careful about the approaches we take and not take shortcuts or compromise God’s will. Your Resources: /episode/index/show/a30efedc-46c2-4468-9d6e-2f5c49c640f3/id/29188813

Teaching Economics 01/17/2024

Teaching Economics There is a mathematical aspect to economics, but it's not the fundamental core. Mathematics is just about taking what we observe and know and reducing it to a formula. The underlying principles of economics are actually the fun part and not mathematically oriented. Mike Winther focuses on these underlying principles in this lecture. He spends the first part teaching us economics. The best way to learn is to teach, and his focus for the next part of this lecture is teaching us how to teach economics. The rules of how you run a household, business, or nation is the study of economics. Mike kicks things off talking about micro and macro economics as he helps increase our understanding while making economics fun. You’ll Learn: [01:36] Economics or the rule or law of the house. [03:03] Microeconomics is the study of a household or a business or industry. Macroeconomics is the economics of an entire industry or nation. [04:42] How economic and fiscal issues are also moral issues. [08:45] The concept of capital. It's a means of production. It's also excess production or profit. [11:58] How productivity is a spiritual and economic obligation. [17:48] We are better off having more goods and services, not more money. [23:31] The free market where people buy and trade at will. [24:42] Socialism was prescribed and advocated by Karl Marx. Communism is a subset of socialism. [28:02] Degrees of free market versus degrees of socialism. [28:31] Socialist capitalism is called monopolistic capitalism. The free market is competitive capitalism. [28:52] With capitalism both parties benefit from any voluntary exchange. [33:09] God ordains and speaks highly of private property and ownership. [36:01] Karl Marx steps to socialize a nation. A lot of them have to do with property rights. [37:27] Some of the steps include abolition of property and land, a heavy progressive or graduated income tax, abolition of all right of inheritance, confiscation of property, centralization of credit, centralize transportation, factories and production owned by the state, organized workforces, redistribution of the population, free education for all children. [42:23] How socialism is actually incompatible with nature. [47:16] Inflating the currency reduces the value of people's savings. [47:48] If we increase the money supply by 10%, prices will go up by 10%. [48:17] Milton Friedman and The Chicago School of Economics. [48:42] The Austrian School is the most free market school of economics. [49:13] Time to talk about teaching economics. If we want our kids to learn this, we need to be interested in it ourselves. [50:00] An example of teaching kids the idea of mutual benefit. [57:39] Socialism is redistribution of wealth. Your Resources: /episode/index/show/a30efedc-46c2-4468-9d6e-2f5c49c640f3/id/29093718

The U.S. Constitution - Static or Living 01/10/2024

The U.S. Constitution - Static or Living There was a time in our recent history when two people having a dispute could change another’s mind, by convincing them that what they were proposing was unconstitutional. People respected and obeyed the Constitution. Mike Winther discusses the U.S. Constitution and whether it is a static or living document. He talks about common problems with current understanding of the Constitution including not knowing what it says, not understanding what it says, or just not caring what it says. He also dives into Constitutional learning. He weaves in current opinion and always goes back to a biblical and scriptural basis for having a principled perspective. You’ll Learn: [00:36] Three problems with the American understanding of the Constitution today. 1. Most Americans don't know what the Constitution says. 2. Those that know what it says don't know how to properly interpret it. 3. Then there are those who know what it says and know what it means, but don't agree with it. [01:15] Decades ago it was very common for most people to support the Constitution. [01:59] Constitutional learning. The Constitutional law class. This teaches what the courts think about the Constitution. [03:10] Teaching about the mechanics of the Constitution can be more valuable than Constitutional law. Understanding the principles the Constitution is based on is even more valuable. [04:09] Philosophies of the Constitution. The original intent. We should maintain the document as it was intended by the founders. This is also called the strict constructionist view. [05:02] The living breathing document view says that the Constitution needs to be a living and evolving document. [07:51] How evolutionary theory affects our law and our Constitution. [10:02] We need to train our kids about the biblical sources of principles. We need to get away from labels and look at the heart of the issue. [12:36] The source of anything determines its use. [18:33] There is no discipline more God ordained in the Bible than the civil government. [19:29] America was unique in identifying that rights come from God. [25:11] In ancient times authority came from God to Moses to the judges. [28:43] The better way to govern is to give a list of what can be done or enumerated powers. [34:02] The Founding Fathers believed that man is corruptible and wanted decentralized power. [37:02] The states created the federal government, not the other way around. [39:26] The states granted the government enumerated powers. [40:56] The states are the source of the Constitution and the ultimate arbiter of power. Your Resources: /episode/index/show/a30efedc-46c2-4468-9d6e-2f5c49c640f3/id/29093683

COVID-19 Political & Economic Questions 01/03/2024

COVID-19 Political & Economic Questions It seems that today, everything is filled with controversy. Mike Winther doesn't shy away from potentially contentious topics, as evidenced in his lecture that delves into the political and economic issues related to COVID-19. He addresses questions about masking, lockdowns, and the appropriate role of government during an epidemic. His discussion begins with the fundamentals and underlying principles, which he then attempts to apply to the context of the pandemic. He starts with the political and governmental dimensions before exploring the economic implications. Additionally, he discusses concepts such as self-governance and the three God-ordained institutional governments, setting the stage for a principled examination of modern issues. You’ll Learn: [02:19] The three God ordained governments include the state government, the church government, and the family government. [03:35] Rights and authority of civil government and the proper authority of government. [04:41] He talks about legitimate powers of the government. [05:24] Broadly speaking civil rights are rights of the citizens within a society. [06:53] The proper role of civil government is everywhere except where it violates rights. [08:16] We know from the Bible that there are limits on all governments including the civil government. [09:11] Government authority comes from God. All authority has absolute boundaries. Scripture provides adequate tools for us to discover the proper role of government. Relativism and gray areas do not come from God. [12:01] Rights of the citizens also come from God. [13:31] As fewer Americans stop thinking our rights come from God, we lose liberty. [16:14] The power of the civil government is to protect one person from another and adjudicate disputes. [18:16] Does spreading Coronavirus infringe on other people's rights? [22:02] We don't want the government to take away someone's rights unjustly. [25:17] The view of the government is that they can infringe on people's rights and freedoms to avoid the spread of the virus. [29:15] Mike talks about standards, reasonable cause, and presumption. He also talks about property rights. [34:50] The practical aspects of how we deal with a pandemic. [40:03] Mike gives an example of property rights and how it relates to smoking in restaurants. [46:10] The idea of presumption. One is innocent until proven guilty. Relativism is the belief that there are no absolutes. [47:24] A bright line is a line of separation between two things. It's a concept that divides one thing from another. [50:52] If you can't find a bright line, you are using relativism for decision making, because there is no absolute. [53:24] A better way to decide what is proper for the government is God's way and reading the scripture. [54:16] We need a standard of what the government can and cannot do. [54:29] Economic issues and voluntary versus compulsory. Christians are likely to do the right thing. The more people are exposed to a Biblical worldview, the more people will be concerned about others. [56:13] People are less likely to disengage from commerce if they can't pay the bills. Your Resources: /episode/index/show/a30efedc-46c2-4468-9d6e-2f5c49c640f3/id/28998128

Race & Social Justice 12/27/2023

Race & Social Justice Mike Winther discusses the outcomes and consequences of certain ideas that have led to protests, the removal of monuments, media censorship, and the suppression of diverse viewpoints. He begins his lecture by delving into the origins of these ideas, starting with the concept of race, and includes a biblical creationist perspective. Additionally, he contrasts the biblical view of race with the evolutionary perspective. He explores three types of equality: equality of outcome, equality of opportunity, and equality under the law. Mike also addresses topics such as justice, equity, and the risks of qualifying justice. Finally, he examines how these concepts influence politics. You’ll Learn: [03:06] The concept of race. [03:25] Webster's 1828 dictionary says that race is the lineage of a family or a series of descendants indefinitely, thus all mankind is called the race of Adam. [04:55] Our modern definition of race usually refers to descendants of a certain culture or skin tone. [05:10] He also talks about the biblical creationist perspective of race. Man was created in the image of God. [07:48] God created one race which is mankind. [13:40] Mike talks about Charles Darwin and The Origin of The Species along with the full title and its perspective. [14:56] Evolution and racism. [16:30] In the 1960s, an undercover agent infiltrated the KKK and turned a lot of evidence over to the FBI. The communist party financed the group. [19:57] Orthodox Christian views do not allow for racism. [20:24] The definition of equality. [21:55] Equality of outcome. The only way to achieve quality of outcome is to treat people differently. [23:44] Equality of opportunity. Opportunity would have to be taken away from those with more given to those with less. [24:30] Equality of law. This is what Mike advocates. People should have equal value, equal rights, and be treated equally by the government. [25:58] Justice. Justice isn't collective, it's individual. [27:19] Equity is not equality. [29:31] Social justice. If Justice is an absolute, qualifying just this is dangerous. [32:28] Collectivism is where the individual is subordinate to the organization. [37:35] Do not confuse individualism with selfishness. [41:59] Collectivism is bad, because it creates group judgments. It's contrary to Justice. It also destroys the concept of individual responsibility. [45:04] Collectivism contradicts the biblical view of property. It also produces poverty. [48:16] Are reparations fair? Not from an individualism perspective. It makes perfect sense for the collectivists. [49:40] Political strategies using race. Satan's objective is to create turmoil and hatred. [50:45] The political strategy of divide and conquer. A divided America will be weaker towards its enemies. [52:00] The whole world is about persuasion. The most effective persuasive tool is group identity. [56:16] The action is in the reaction. [01:00:25] Race identity politics and an us versus them mentality. [01:01:19] We need to change human hearts. [01:03:57] History should be a teacher to us. What we believe about the present is determined by what we believe about the past. [01:06:09] Let's recognize the good philosophies in our history and recognize the shortcomings. [01:09:34] We need to treat people as God would treat people. Your Resources: /episode/index/show/a30efedc-46c2-4468-9d6e-2f5c49c640f3/id/28998098

Cancel Culture 12/20/2023

Cancel Culture Mike Winther shares his perspective on what ‘cancel culture’ is and why we should care. He talks about how ‘cancel culture’ is usually an attack on someone’s reputation or employment based on ideology. It can also be an attempt of intimidation to get people to modify their attitudes. It can also be an attempt to remove ideas or alternative viewpoints. It can also remove financial resources, such as boycotting businesses or getting employees fired. He explores this topic, and the information is as relevant today as when this lecture was first given. You’ll Learn: [01:19] Cancel culture is usually defined as an attack on someone's reputation or their employment based on ideology. It's also an attempt of intimidation to get people to modify their attitudes. [02:47] It can also be an attempt to remove financial resources from businesses or employees. [03:17] There is significant overlap between some of the recent protests and ‘cancel culture’. [03:36] Mike shares some examples of ‘cancel culture’ in action. [05:07] Censoring can also be a result of ‘cancel culture’ especially on social media. [05:41] Changing thinking and actions as part of the battle for hearts and minds. [06:15] Methods can be good and bad. For instance, education can be good unless it's not accurate. Intimidation and property destruction are methods that can result in a boomerang effect. [07:40] The public can boycott and use market forces to create a change. [08:25] Mike is going to share four different contrasts. 1. Government versus private. This can determine whether it's morally acceptable or unacceptable. 2. Reason versus emotion. Is it based on reason or emotion? 3. Is it a good worldview versus a bad worldview? 4. We need to evaluate the heart. Is there a good heart or an evil heart? [09:26] Government versus private. Governments shouldn't be promoters of philosophy or policy. We don't want the government influencing the people. We want the people to influence the government. [14:26] Is it okay for private parties to influence public opinion? Yes. [14:45] The first amendment is designed to limit government action not private action. [18:08] Many monopolies received government help in the early days. [18:32] Our regulatory environment also reduces competition. [19:55] Our educational system can be another issue when censoring. [23:12] Reason versus emotion. So much of the 'cancel culture' is based on emotional feeling. [27:06] A good worldview versus a bad worldview. [28:10] The good heart versus the bad heart. Too much of 'cancel culture' is aimed at people. We shouldn't attack the people, we should attack the idea. A lot of cancel culture is aimed at the person who has the idea. [29:46] Mike talks about the large number of monuments that have been removed. [34:00] Should we engage? As long as we do it correctly and pursue a good goal. Your Resources: /episode/index/show/a30efedc-46c2-4468-9d6e-2f5c49c640f3/id/28846768

Debate & Agricultural Policy 12/13/2023

Debate & Agricultural Policy Mike Winther talks about asking what the proper role of Government is and what economic system we should have. He emphasizes understanding what socialism is and knowing why it's right or wrong. He also talks about the type of mindset we should have about socialist programs in agriculture. Some of the items he features include debate and truth, agricultural policy, socialism, and limited government. He also talks about price and economy, subsidies and fairness, and the burden of proof with quality standards. You’ll Learn: [01:02] Sophists were people in ancient Greece who engaged in debate, but they weren't concerned about truth. Debate was a game. [01:55] When we debate both sides of the issue, it's easy to walk away from a topic without an actual opinion. [02:38] Is there true belief that we should advocate for agricultural policy? [03:01] We should ask what the proper role of government is and what economic system we should be operating under. [04:07] We spend a lot of time in the area of practicality but not enough in the area of principle. [04:36] Socialism is an economic system characterized by government controlled capital or forced redistribution of wealth. [06:41] Why might socialism be considered a bad thing? [07:26] Socialism violates a number of biblical principles. It violates property rights. There's a Biblical argument for limited small narrow taxation. [09:30] Socialism creates poverty. Nations that have free market systems are wealthier. [11:57] Taxes reduce production and make prices go up. People also need to be paid to be the redistributors. This reduces the number of people who are actually producing goods and services. [13:13] The welfare state reduces production. [14:17] Socialism violates property rights, creates poverty, and promotes envy and covetousness. It creates a mindset of givers and takers. [14:53] The study of political science is how we allocate the pie. [15:50] Socialism also produces idolatry. It creates an idol or a dependency. [17:29] Socialism has become a dominant factor in our society because it's promoted in the educational system, it's promoted in the media, inviting people in groups into socialism is also a way to promote it. [18:53] We've invited farmers into the Socialist system by giving subsidies. [20:31] Stabilizing prices is a common argument. [22:07] Price is the key to the economy. [28:32] Government providing insurance subsidies is like price fixing. [30:07] Who defines what quality is with a government enforced standard? [31:41] There may well be a limited role of government for environmental protection. [33:23] There needs to be a burden of proof for the argument to a high standard. [34:25] All of these questions come back to the proper role of government and what economic system we should have. [35:00] There should also be a level playing field for government protections. We need a consistent mindset for government programs. Your Resources: /episode/index/show/a30efedc-46c2-4468-9d6e-2f5c49c640f3/id/28838698

To Fight Or Not To Fight, That Is The Question 12/06/2023

To Fight Or Not To Fight, That Is The Question In this insightful episode, Mike Winther delves into the intricate topic of war powers and their constitutional roots. He explores the original intentions of the founding fathers as laid out in the Constitution, shedding light on the constitutional aspects of military engagement and policy. The lecture is structured around three core objectives. Firstly, Mike will examine the constitutional framework guiding decisions about going to war. He will then delve into various theories of war, discussing the circumstances under which war is justified and when military action is permissible. Finally, he raises a crucial question: Are our current, or any, American leaders truly fit to make these momentous decisions on our behalf? Join us as we navigate these complex issues with Mike Winther. You’ll Learn: [03:17] Article 1 Section 8 of The Constitution lays out the responsibility for declaring war. [04:05] We've had a number of wars that haven't actually been declared as wars. [04:56] Is funding a war and approving it the same thing? [05:32] The founding fathers intended more than just a vote from Congress to fund a war. Congress consists of the House of Representatives and the Senate. [06:10] Before the 17th Amendment, the senators were appointed by the states. The house represented the people, and the founding fathers knew that the people would be paying for the war. [07:11] The founding fathers gave Congress the power to declare war and the president the power to manage the war. [09:13] Mike discusses the difference between engaging and declaring. [10:06] By funding the war and not declaring it, Congress gets plausible deniability. [12:55] War theory and the decision about whether to use force. [13:14] There's a parallel with Biblical standards for violence and force and civil government for violence and force. [19:10] Would it be justifiable for the good samaritan to use violence to help the victim during the attack? Are they required to intervene? [23:19] Ancient Israel had an all volunteer military force up until King Saul. [23:58] Can America as a nation force our fellow citizens to fight a war they don't want to fight? [24:30] Should America be the police force to the world? [25:10] The idea of just war theory comes from scripture. [28:57] Can we trust our leaders with foreign policy decisions? [30:29] The general trend of our government on a federal level has been to promote ideals and policies that most of us would object to. [31:08] If these leaders aren't doing a good job at home, how well would they do on a foreign stage? [38:32] Mike discusses problems with American intervention in foreign governments. [40:27] We need to be able to trust the leadership we have in our government to do the right thing before they start meddling in the governments of other countries. [44:55] We need to recognize the forces who are advocating for big government and centralizing power. We should always be careful about consolidation. Your Resources: /episode/index/show/a30efedc-46c2-4468-9d6e-2f5c49c640f3/id/28648558

Who Protects The Consumer 11/29/2023

Who Protects The Consumer Should we increase charity for the poor? Should we implement a healthcare plan? What should our policy be on energy and foreign oil? Nearly every government policy is rooted in an economic decision. Governments often expand beyond their original limits. Such growth typically results in a loss of liberty and freedom. Modern opinions can be easily influenced by the media. Mike Winther delves into the issues of government power and consumer protection in this thought-provoking lecture. You’ll Learn: [01:29] Historically governments tend to grow beyond the bounds intended when the government was formed. [03:09] Government growth always comes at the expense of liberty and freedom. [04:32] Excuses when surrendering liberty and freedom include protecting the needy and the consumer. [05:22] How could the consumers be protected in a limited government society? [07:01] The Jungle was a novel but it was reported to be factual in the day. [11:42] We developed administrative law in the 1900s. Congress began delegating their lawmaking authority to agencies. [15:17] We now have a regulatory nightmare. [18:58] When we talk about public agencies, we're talking about government agencies. [20:41] Categories of people and things we may need to be protected from. First category is producers. [21:41] We can have a public or a private solution. [22:05] People make choices in a truly free market. [22:58] The judges in the Bible spent a lot of time adjudicating disputes between others. [25:46] Underwriters Laboratory is a private enterprise. It's a voluntary consumer protection model. [33:30] When the government gives something to one person it has to take it away from some other person. [33:50] Mike dives into the history of monopolies in America using an example of the railroad system. [40:20] The first kind of monopoly is a government created monopoly. Example AT&T. [42:10] There are special laws that allow unions to monopolize a workforce. [44:44] Free market economists might debate whether patents are good or bad things. [45:14] The efficiency monopoly has no detrimental effect to an economy. They provide the best product at the cheapest price. [47:47] Big business usually supports government regulation. They actually use the power of government to improve their market share. Your Resources: /episode/index/show/a30efedc-46c2-4468-9d6e-2f5c49c640f3/id/28500338

Terrorism 11/22/2023

Justice 11/15/2023

Basic Economics 11/08/2023

Basic Economics The study of economics is often viewed as a battle between two worldviews. Proverbs 11:1 underscores this, stating, "A false balance is an abomination to the Lord, but a just weight is his delight." This verse not only condemns dishonesty but also accentuates the importance of integrity. This theme is a central focus in this lecture by Mike Winther on basic economic principles. Economics becomes particularly fascinating when viewed in the context of this larger conflict. Mike presents a perspective distinct from the common narratives on energy policy, healthcare, prices, and recession found in the news. The Bible offers solutions to our current economic challenges, and Mike discusses the benefits of understanding and embracing a biblical worldview. You’ll Learn: [00:41] Proverbs 11:1 The lord abhors dishonest scales. Accurate weights are his delight. [01:26] We are battling between honest weights and measures and dishonest weights and measures. [01:47] What if you or someone you knew had the solution to America's healthcare crisis? Would it be important for society to know these solutions? [02:31] The Bible contains the economic solutions for all of our current problems. [03:35] Mike talks about why the biblical worldview isn't taught frequently enough from the pulpit. [07:26] Parents need to be hands on with what their kids are being taught. [09:52] Economics is an evangelistic field of study. Every academic discipline is a field for evangelism. [10:59] The invisible hand is God. [11:53] Economics is really the rules of the house. Economics is the study of property. It's the study of resources. [15:11] Are money issues moral issues? [16:54] Microeconomics is the study of economics related to a household or business. [17:23] Macroeconomics is the study of an entire economy. Economic laws and truths apply in both fields. [19:43] Mike talks about scarcity and supply and demand. [20:06] Capital is the key to the study of economics. It's the means of production. It can also be excess production. [22:53] Excess production is profit. [23:48] There are two broad economic systems in the world. There's the free market economy or laissez-faire. To be left alone or government hands off. [24:34] The other economic system is socialism. From each according to his ability to each according to his need. This implies a central pooling of resources. [25:36] The common pooling of resources is mandatory and forced. [27:11] Communism is a form of socialism. Karl Marx gives 10 ways on how to bring socialism to a system. [28:11] Eight of these points have to do with the abolition and infringement of private property. [31:25] The free market system is the only system compatible with God given rights. [36:20] Economic schools of thought. Keynesian economics is really socialist economics. It's an economic model of government control. [37:01] The Austrian School of economics is the purest version of free market economics. [40:26] Who benefits from economic transactions? [42:49] Money is a key concept of economics. Money is a medium of exchange, a store of value, and a unit of measurement. [44:16] The five important qualities of money include having intrinsic value, durability, divisibility, transportability, and scarcity. [49:57] Mike talks about how inflation is a form of theft. [52:17] Supply and demand. As prices go up, businesses supply more. A lot of people will buy an affordable product. Where supply and demand meet on the curb is where the price should be. Your Resources: /episode/index/show/a30efedc-46c2-4468-9d6e-2f5c49c640f3/id/28378163

Understanding And Teaching Constitutional Principles 11/01/2023

Understanding And Teaching Constitutional Principles The Constitution is the founding document of our government, yet many people don't know or understand it. It's important for us to educate ourselves and our children about constitutional principles to contribute to the type of government our founding fathers intended. Mike Winther delves into the understanding and teaching of the Constitution in this lecture summary, which is based on his 10-hour Constitution class. Mike discusses why the Constitution is under siege, facing challenges from politicians who don't want to obey it, citizens who disagree with its contents, and people who are ignorant of its meaning. He then explains the significance of understanding the Constitutional foundation. Mike explores the idea of God being the source of our rights and the interpretation of these rights through scripture. He also examines topics such as majority rule and the origins of government authority. You’ll Learn: [01:06] Constitution week is in September. Now teachers who misunderstand the Constitution are going to share this information with their students. [02:01] Many Americans in general don't know what the constitution actually says. Many also don't actually understand what it means. Americans have also drifted so far away from the Constitution, that if we really understood it we would hate it. [03:13] We have a nation with millions of people in some form or another getting government subsidies which are actually unconstitutional. [06:30] The first foundation that underlies the Constitution is the source of rights. [06:50] The source of anything determines the use of that thing. [07:26] We need to know the source of our rights and who regulates those rights. [08:08] Is the source of our rights government? [12:52] We are endowed by our creator with certain inalienable rights. Our rights come from God. [13:59] We also have to analyze where government authority comes from. [15:43] Weighing people's rights with a more than 50% probability of guilt. [17:29] The job of the people is to pick our leaders but not to determine government authority. [18:09] The proper authority for civil government is outlined in the scriptures. [19:40] Mike talks about the biblical roles of civil government such as adjudicating disputes, protecting life, liberty and property, and protecting from foreign invasion. [20:41] The nature of government. The government isn't supposed to protect us from ourselves. [23:47] Similar to fire, good government that is contained is a wonderful thing. [25:39] The nature of man. We can't really trust human beings. [27:27] The concept of enumerated powers. The few powers of the government are actually listed. [29:43] Mike talks about the Federalist and the Anti-Federalist. [34:56] The idea of a republic. The founding fathers' also created a mixed form of government with an executive branch, a legislative branch, and a judicial branch. [36:58] Sovereignty of the states. The states were not created by the federal government. The states gave authority to the federal government. [41:06] States need to decide the constitutionality, because they are the source of the Constitution. [43:02] Executive orders aren't in the Constitution. [47:06] Enumerated powers need to be enacted fairly for the entire country. Your Resources: /episode/index/show/a30efedc-46c2-4468-9d6e-2f5c49c640f3/id/28360805

Everything Is Strategic 10/25/2023

Everything Is Strategic Mike Winther outlines a strategy for improving our government and returning to the principles that support the Constitution and limited government. He discusses the difference between tactics and strategy, emphasizing the importance of educating ourselves and our families. He also explores the distinction between socialism and free-market economies, noting how the lines between them can, and often do, get blurred. Additionally, he underscores the necessity of educating others. Mike speaks further about adopting a superior strategy, prioritizing winning the war over every individual battle. You’ll Learn: [00:49] Discouragement on the side of people who want limited government and support the constitution. [02:09] Our philosophical enemies don't compartmentalize their political life. For them, everything is strategic. [03:32] Cancel culture is making your political agenda all of your life. [05:04] A tactic is how you win a battle. A strategy is how you win the war. [05:56] Most of our elections were won or lost in our high schools and colleges 30 years ago. [07:42] 1. We need to educate ourselves. If we don't educate ourselves and our families, we will gradually be persuaded to socialism. [08:37] Socialism is when the government intervenes in the economy. [10:36] We need to educate ourselves so we don't gradually fall into being socialists. [11:07] 2. We need to educate others. [12:00] 3. Strategy. All politics are local. [13:30] Congress and the House of Representatives have a lot of power. [14:36] With strategy you can win the war without winning every battle. We should put more time and attention into our congressional seats and less into the White House. [16:47] We need to groom the proper candidates. [17:54] Candidates should know and understand the proper role of government. [20:44] We need to develop candidates long-term and educate them along the way. [21:16] Big business is pouring a ton of money into government and socialist causes. We as the consumer indirectly pour money into their pockets. [24:17] We need to vote with our pocketbooks. [26:41] We have to have a strategy and educate ourselves. We need to educate others. Your Resources: /episode/index/show/a30efedc-46c2-4468-9d6e-2f5c49c640f3/id/28306556

Defining Good Government Through Biblical Principles 10/18/2023

Defining Good Government Through Biblical Principles Elections are frequently influenced by the media and the electorate's preceding education. As Christians, we should foster a more robust philosophy regarding the appropriate role of government, defined by good governance through biblical principles. Changing hearts and minds is possible through educating others about these principles. In this lecture, Mike Winther explains the role of good government by utilizing biblical principles as a standard. He discusses the necessity of maintaining certain absolutes within the government structure. Furthermore, Mike explores the three God-ordained roles of government, delineating between the proper and improper functions within these roles. You’ll Learn: [03:57] Current elections are determined by previous graduating classes. Campaigns are usually about shifting a small percentage of the population one way or the other. [05:03] Education is what sways elections. We need to be able to change hearts and minds in America. [07:01] Both political parties are heading to the wrong end of the spectrum, because of our schools and our media. [08:02] Christians need to have a better philosophy about what the proper role of government is. [09:37] Relativism is the belief that there are no absolutes. [13:35] Do's and Don'ts for church, family, and civil government. [15:27] The idea of a source of authority. All authority has a source or origin. [18:23] The idea that the government gets its legitimate authority from our creator or God. If there is no God-given source of authority, the alternative would be the majority. [19:42] Mike talks about Romans 13. [22:18] The purpose of an election is to hold officials accountable and to choose people of good character. [24:02] Mike talks about the three main categories of god-given authority for the civil government. [27:08] Anything that's not a government power is the rights of the people. The founding fathers were clear about our rights coming from God. [30:16] Problems arise when rights come from one place and authority comes from another place. [31:32] We need to advance political thought to a much higher level than before. [33:58] We don't want to give any human being too much power, so we decentralize power and have checks and balances. [34:45] The decentralization of power is Plato's playbook. [37:45] The maximum ethical tax rate is 9%. Your Resources: /episode/index/show/a30efedc-46c2-4468-9d6e-2f5c49c640f3/id/28306523

Individualism vs Collectivism 10/11/2023

Individualism vs Collectivism Mike Winther talks about another clash of worldviews with this lecture on individualism versus collectivism. The individual has value and the group has value, but collectivism puts the group higher than the individual. Whereas, individualism elevates the individual as the most important. We learn about the biblical perspective of these two theories. Mike talks about authors who were in favor of collectivism including Karl Marx and Friedrich Engels. Communism was founded on the idea of collectivism. When it comes to public policy, we need to be able to recognize when one concept is elevated and understand the consequences of this. Mike shares wisdom, insights, and more! You’ll Learn: [00:45] The theory of individualism places the individual as having the highest value. The theory of collectivism places the group as having the highest value. [01:56] Who should be allowed to get into the life raft? It's probably not best to use human wisdom to decide who lives and dies. [04:24] Thinking collectively and devaluing the individual and valuing the group. [05:37] The economic system of communism is founded on the group being more important than the individual. [06:05] Is it okay to treat someone unjustly, because it's better for the group? [08:07] The collectivist mindset and imposing the greater good on individuals. [11:27] The Bible has more passages on civil government than family and church government combined. We need to be more careful with the government that can use force. [12:39] The three God ordained institutions include family government, church government, and civil government. These are tools used to regulate society. [15:05] Government needs to work the way that God intended it to work. [16:22] Family government is given the broadest powers, then church, then society. When one government is stronger another is weaker. [17:48] Family government is given the tool of the rod. The Church government can remove fellowship and excommunicate. [19:40] The biblically modeled tool of discipline for the state is the sword. [21:41] Civil government is always a collective activity. [22:31] Another worldview battle we have is the ends versus the means. [25:46] The reason things are so contentious is because we have trained students to believe that the ends justify the means. [27:53] The Christian answer is that we are not responsible for the end result. [30:56] We need to focus on the path of the means. Your Resources: /episode/index/show/a30efedc-46c2-4468-9d6e-2f5c49c640f3/id/28271123

Principle Perspective with Mike Winther

TOPICS