So, I’m now an independent wondering what will happen next…

Nearly a week on from my departure from the Liberal Democrats, I’m adjusting to the life of a political independent; which, I must confess, is rather comfortable and quite liberating. The whole NHS debate was intoxicating (in a negative way) to the point I considered abandoning my Twitter account, due to several skirmishes and outbreaks of war on my time line. It was a little tedious, I have to say..

Over the weekend, I’ve had several messages of support, sympathy and congratulations (thank you to my Tory followers); predominate question was whether or not I would ever align myself to another party, or rejoin the Liberal Democrats. Across the weeks and months you might see opinions and editorials on different outlets, which I have never contributed to before; don’t assume new affiliation, in the political sense. Just expanding my audience.

Any announcement, on new political affiliation, would occur on this blog first. It is something I have not really given much thought to throughout the last week; there has been offers, but I’m currently not entertaining anything just yet. Probably will participate in certain campaigns and endorse individual candidates (I am open to offers).

But the big question I was asked by numerous people: will I rejoin the Liberal Democrats? honestly, I don’t think so. I shall not give a reason why, but party members must look at the inner details of the polls; specifically voting patterns among Liberal Democrat voters. Forget the leadership, overall party support and dare I say the membership – focus primarily on the changing attitudes of voters in general and, fundamentally, your own voters. It is the key to survival. That’s all I will say.

I’m still available on Twitter (@danielfurruk) and via e-mail (danielfurr at gmail.com) for any questions, etc.

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Review of my first article for Liberal Democrat Voice

A trip down memory lane; I was ready my first ever OP/ED for the voice back in 2008. Arguably the most controversial article to ever appear on that website. I was, at the time, an ‘independent liberal’ defending the Iraq war.

46 comments; majority of them quite critical. In retrospective, I was quite naive and rather too overt with my contrarianism. Reviewing the wording and presentation does not alter my original opinions. I still support my stance. But I do make one observation and criticism;

That is why I am an independent liberal. My views and beliefs are different to some, and my support for the neoconservative agenda has isolated me amongst liberals. But if the liberalism we hold so dear is based on liberty and democracy, then we of all people have the moral right to spread it.

I was extremely arrogant with my assertions and too cocky. Had an uncanny ability to alienate the readers by assuming my opinion was the only legitimate answer. Honestly wish to believe I’ve matured and no longer maintained that attitude.

Sometimes, I think it is beneficial to review previous work and to observe potential areas for improvement. Good for the soul.

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Imagine a world…

1. Without religion
2. Where governments were truly by the people
3. That praised freedom of expression
4. Without war, poverty or disease
5. Without a domination, order or control

As I politically mature and learn about the functioning of the world, the more I truly do despise the current form. Radically, I find myself ever more rejecting the state, idea of government, corporatism and any form of authority. A rather peculiar and obscured Liberal Democrat I’ve morphed into. Many critiques have been penned about me in the past about my allegiance and membership; I cannot give up my devote independence though, I passionately believe in individualism and our right to it.

Not sure whether my left libertarianism is best to describe my political thought and doctrine these days. But who knows, life is one great learning experience and we only get one chance in this world.

As Nietzsche passionately believed; our loyalty was to the Earth. Nothing else.

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Media appearence

The kind folks at BBC Radio Kent contacted me this morning to discuss immigration and  the South East. Thank you to Julia George and her team, especially producer Claire for arranging the interview.

It was the first time I’ve appeared on a major radio station, only been asked to appear on Internet radio or small networks in the States. This was all new to me and I was in awe at the moment. Was quite nervous and it does come across in parts.

But, again, thank you to BBC Radio Kent.

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Thoughts on the Oscars

In recent years, the British have been quite successful at the Oscars and the film industry in general. The King’s speech is another perfect success of the British ability to tell a good, captivating and well articulated story – which the audience finds gripping.

Slum dog millionaire is another example. It seems British film industry has an uncanny ability to bring a gentle human touch to movies, making the characters be able to relate to the audience. Making them seem more real, so to speak. Which is quite rare in contemporary movie making.

Personally, I find Hollywood blockbusters to be rather repetitive, predictable and extremely lumpen. Storyline, adequate plot and continuity are lacking in most and the use of 3D is execrable. Certain CGI sequences are painful on the eye. I tend to avoid any motion picture which has been hyped up by the Hollywood elite – I find myself disappointed and cheated in majority of the cases. That’s why success from non-American and low budget foreign films please me greatly.

Finally, I’m happy to see Christian Bale getting recognised by the Academy. Arguably the most underrated actor of our times, mainly due to his refusal to accept the ways of Hollywood.

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