Yesterday was Memorial Day and it is odd to write about genocide because it involves death and no hope. However there are lessons to be learned in ensuring genocide does not happen again. If you read the book in that vein then it is worthwhile reading. The book Genocide was written by Jane Springer published by House of Anansi Press, Toronto, 2006. In the book there are listings of many of the genocides of the past centuries, for it is not new to our age. There are 8 stages:

1. Classification:  People are separated into us and them.
2. Symbolizations: Names and symbols are given to the classified people
3. Dehumanization: The other group is treated as non human.
4. Organization: Special army units or militias are trained, killings are planned.
5. Polarization: Groups are driven apart by extremists; intermarriage or social interaction between groups is forbidden.
6. Preparation: Targeted people are physically separated from each other
7. Extermination: Mass killing of people begins
8. Denial: The perpetrators cover up the evidence, deny the crimes and block investigations into the crimes. They need to removed from power by force.

Genocide happens because people believe their part will have no consequences and they see people as less than equal.

Linking to dividend paying stocks, while companies are seen as competitors, the idea is not to totally wipe them out for them other rules will come into place. The desire for a consistent long term profits is a desire to have near monopoly conditions as well as meeting customer satisfaction levels. When customer satisfaction levels fall, other alternatives are found. Maintaining the customer satisfaction level helps ensure long term consistent profitability. Discriminate by customer, not by people.

There are more questions than answers, till the next time – to raising questions.