I adhere to most of the basic tenets of realism (For more information read American Realism Revisited in order to gain more insight.) and what it states about human nature and security in general. The most popular forms of this theory, Christian realism, realism and neorealism, all emphasize man's nature as the constant in international affairs. Human beings, like nations need to defend themselves or perish. In short, men can be counted on to act like men; therefore, they should not be trusted. Realism focuses on states or nations as the primary actors in world affairs. Powerful nations rule the day and force weaker nations to comply with their aims. National self interests are manifested in economic gain and military power. This has been the case for many centuries. The world is changing and globalization has challenged some of this sentiment. Some say that realism is outdated and cannot answer many of the pressing issues taking place in the current age of warfare and the Global War on Terror. I believe most of the basic tenets of realism can sufficiently address some of these issues, but agree with those who differ with me that globalization and state failure have forced realists to reconsider the security landscape. The major players have not changed in warfare, but the minor leaguers have made their presence felt. Further, I would argue that although the security landscape has changed because of globalization and an increase in failing or failed states, human nature has not. These two factors have enabled more people to participate in violence and other illegitimate activities. The increase of this simply means that men continue to engage one another on a violent level. Security is a serious matter in an age of increasing lawlessness and globalization, and it is everyone's business. Criminals do not simply break into concrete doors. Militant cult leaders enter into the minds of the unstable through perverse religion and criminals unlock virtual doors in their quest for illegitimate gain. This is the world we live in and no one group has the answer. With this in mind I hope that all security experts agree to work with one another and engage in critical thinking in the following areas when seeking out ways to make the world a less dangerous place. I know it sounds cliché, but we are all in this together. With this in mind critical thinking becomes more important than ever. I hope people working in the security field find the following approach listed below helpful.

“Critical thinking is careful and deliberate determination of whether to accept, reject, or suspend judgment.” Moore and Parker, 1994

Brainstorming: group problem-solving technique that involves the spontaneous contribution of ideas from all members of the group.

8. Can you articulate the ideas to others in a humble manner and be open to concession making?

Iran has decided to increase its belicose approach toward the the US and the UK. The recent capture of British soldiers has highlighted the mounting tension. The strategy is clear; drive a wedge between the US and UK and reduce the willingness of the UK to continue with its support of US foreign policy. The wedge approach will undoubtedly have some effect on British duration in the Middle East, if not short-term, certainly long-term. The Iraq war is immensely unpopular with the citizens of the UK. Tony Blair is under tremendous political pressure and this most recent embarassment does not help his case with the British people. Iran may be banking on the recent success North Korea has had after successfully testing a nuclear device. The North Koreans have, to their credit, won, condemnation, respect and financial incentives from the US.

Iran's domestic strategy focuses on painting a picture of the British being a country that has encroached upon their national sovereignty. The Ayatollahs want to galvanize the Persian population around the age old approach of "us versus them." The Ayatollahs know that if they are going to remain in power they must be seen as God's representatives on earth. Part of being divinely favored includes courage and the ability to fight aggression. If they are able to resist Goliaths and at the same time pursue what is in the best interests of their people, they will increase their popularity among the masses.

The world is rapidly changing. Ideas have always been the harbinger of change. Historically ideas have been a force for unifying people, but also a source of division and war. In a world of globalization and instantaneous access to new ideas, revolts become more common on small and large scales. Religious, cultural and civil revolts will increase in this new world. People want freedom, not restrictions and they are always looking for this in the form of opportunities and access. The lure of the unbridled horse will always be appealing and leaders of revolts will capitalize on this as they spin a web of appeal and deception. Since 9/11 we have seen the revolt of Al Qaeda ideology against Islam, its host countries and individual imams. They promise their followers the freedom to worship and follow God in purity of heart. They instruct them to revolt in order to attain this freedom. New ideas, unrelated to Al Qaeda will emerge, revolts will follow and the world will remain in a dynamic state of change because of them.

I recently returned from California where I was able to meet with and present my research to top notch local and federal law enforcement officers, Haz Mat folks, Emergency Response professionals, DAs and intelligience agents. It was a great response and turnout. It is encouraging to know that the musings of a civilian watchman have received attention from this superb class of folks.. I want to say thank you to all the people that make these presentations possible and are generous with the funding. For those of you who are new to the website, I hope you find some of information useful. I am convinced that our communities are safer because of the ongoing efforts of the individuals mentioned above and we should support them as best we can, and let me state this again, it is a pleasure to work with them. As far as the rest of you who do not actively work in the security arena, remember stay alert and keep watching, because you need to know what's going on. More postings are coming soon.

Innate Revolt Theory is a theoretical framework that combines political philosophy and sociology and seeks to explain the nature of revolts and leadership. The dilemma of revolt is always clear; those who successfully revolt now are tasked with providing, and maintaining, revolt proof leadership; their survival depends on it. History has given us an ongoing narrative concerning those in revolt and the people who rule over them. Revolts take place on the micro and macro level. Revolt: The Lure of the Unbridled Horse is a forthcoming book that will seek to explain the phenomena of revolts. The pillars below are foundational stones of the theory.

Innate Revolt Theory

1. Human beings are rational creatures ruled by self interest and in order for groups to exist and function individuals are trained to subject or cloak their own interests to a degree while professing loyalty and commitment to the larger group . This is considered the rational exchange [1]

2. Self interest must be channeled through seeking and forming a sense of individual identity within the group, cultivating a sense of attachment and belonging to a group, and ultimately seeking to increase one’s individual value to a group.

3. The modern nation state is currently the best manifestation of how human beings have coalesced around identity, law and ideas while both ensuring its survival, and maximizing its ability to increase its indexes of power and influence.

4. The forces of globalization are connecting people on different levels like never before. Globalization is challenging the sovereignty of states and the unique cultures and ideas nations and their populations have come to cherish. Over time instantaneous access to knowledge, produces an influx factor that allows people to have access to a plethora of ideas and leaders that they were once unfamiliar with. Some of these ideas and leaders will challenge people to violently revolt against previous ideas and leaders.

5. The state will be fiercely challenged for its legitimacy over the population by supranationalists, etherealists, tribalists, anarchists, racists and numerous others who will utilize violence and propaganda to expand their influence and population bases. After a network of people are secured, revolt leaders will have to choose whether they want to overthrow those who are in power and replace it with their new order and vision, or remain in the role of challengers and detractors. Innate revolt theory concludes that a spectrum of groups will emerge, from loosely connected networks to newly formed states.

6. The last pillar of this theory deals with order and cohesion. Cohesion capital is the ability a leader or leaders have to maintain the loyalty and cooperation of their followers.

September 5th 2009

In the field of security, with highly adaptive, evolving threats, yesterday's success is not enough today. We know that the proliferation of lethal minds takes place because of various inducements offered by secular and/or religious groups that are competing with the state for primacy in the lives of their followers. New movements are emerging and we need new trainings that will develop mindsets that are flexible, courageous and strategic. With this aim in mind Relevant Now is focusing it's efforts on strategic intervention with the aim of winning the hearts and minds of potential combatants, before radicalization and criminality become imbeded in the psyches of these individuals. We are also partnering with L.E.A.D.E.R.S.H.I.P. 1st for some of the programs/presentations. Hope to see you soon.