Business

Con Artists Take Center Stage

Nations can be fooled when politicians drain the treasury and make promises which cannot be vetted for years on end.

Published

2 years ago

July 7, 2021

Jeff Davidson

One evening, I attend a seminar which features a renowned “psychic.” Allegedly she is able to merely look at people in the audience and tell them about departed loved ones who are seeking contact, or who are present in the room during the gathering!

From my back row seat, I listen intently. I am skeptical of such claims and certainly of those that involve the dead, but I’m willing to be ‘educated.’ My key concern: Can she offer anything to anyone in the room that indicates she has specific information from their departed loved ones? This, as opposed to generalized blather that any cognitively sharp person could surmise.

Something, Anything…

For the first 30+ minutes, she’s on a fishing expedition. She’ll say to selected individuals, “You lost someone within the last few years, haven’t you?” In a room populated by 45 to 75-year-olds, this is not a startling revelation.

She says to one couple, who are apparently married, “You have two children don’t you? They are boys.” The man and woman nod in agreement. A light goes off in my head: Now, for the first time in nearly 35 minutes the “psychic” has cited something that is case-specific. If she did not know these people beforehand, and had no chance to speak to them, potentially she has shown some inkling of ability, although I don’t know exactly what to call it.

The entire session is being video recorded. As she makes her pronouncements, calling on people in the audience, the camera crew focuses on those parties with whom she engages in dialogue. Even during her many fishing expeditions that yield no fish, the camera crew diligently records. The next day, she can edit the video footage to show off her ‘amazing’ ‘psychic’ ability. This starts me thinking…

Divide and Conquer

I’m not saying the woman and crew are con artists, like a Nancy Pelosi or a Chuck Schumer. I haven’t studied the situation sufficiently to draw such a conclusion. However, of late, con artists have perfected their craft and even with increasingly sophisticated audiences, or target markets, can reap profits.

Take the case of someone who professes to have forecasting capabilities. From a target direct mail list he bought, the “forecaster” sends out a mailing to 2400 individuals, each of whom is a long-term stock market investor. To 1200 recipients he predicts a particular stock will increase in value by the close of the market on a selected date in the very near future.

To the 1200 other recipients he says that this stock will not increase in value. It will decrease or stay the same. Thus, 1200 recipients will receive one communication from this forecaster that proves to be true. Okay, big deal.

Getting Them Hooked

The forecaster mails a second letter to the 1200 recipients with whom he was correct on the first mailing. He tells 600 of them about another stock that will increase, and tells the other 600 that the same stock will not increase. For half of the 1200 recipients he will be correct.

What a marvelous process. With 600 recipients he has been correct in his stock predictions twice in a row. He repeats the process a third time and now has 300 people with whom he has been correct three times in a row.

Granted, some people didn’t pay attention or chucked his mailing post haste. Others couldn’t care less. Still, perhaps 180 people or so might be primed to plunk down $247, or whatever the annual fee is for his stock predictions ezine. For a total mailing cost and labor of under $3000, he collects $44,460 (180 subscribers times $247). It doesn’t matter what else happens that year – whether or not his stock predictions are accurate. He has already pocketed more than $40,000 for this small scale operation. And he could have mailed to 240,000 people at the outset, 100 times 2400.

Some of the People All of the Time

Abraham Lincoln said, “You can fool all of the people some of the time, and some of the people all the time, but you cannot fool all of the people all of the time.” Con artists train themselves in the fine art of separating fools from their money, or capturing their votes, relying on the premise that you can fool some of the people all of the time. Who is most likely to succumb to con artistry? Those who:

* like the idea of getting something for nothing
* are in despair, in a quandary, or who lack direction
* seek shortcuts along life’s journey
* want to make money quickly
* grieve over the dearly departed
* are not intellectually rigorous
* want to be led by someone with special insights
* think the government can print money with no repercussions

The opioid patient, the cancer patient, the patient with an inoperable brain tumor might fervently seek answers, sometimes dismissing a lifetime of accumulated wisdom and judgment, and the pleas of family and friends, in the hope that they’ve found a miracle cure. After U.S. doctors informed him that they had no chance of prolonging his life, actor Steve McQueen paid $40,000 per month, out of pocket, for highly unconventional medical procedures, to treat pleural mesothelioma during a three-month stay in Rosarito Beach, Mexico

His daily treatment included injections of live cell fluid from sheep and cows, as well as a massage and laetrile, an allegedly natural anti-cancer drug not approved by the Food and Drug Administration in the U.S. but available in Mexico. McQueen died at the same time he likely would have without the unconventional medical procedures.

Lead Us to the Promised Land!

Entire groups of people can be deceived. Sometimes their consent is voluntary, often it is involuntary. The common denominator is they want to be led by a “messiah type” who seems to have the answers to their long-term or persistent problems. If the “messiah” is a politician, they vote accordingly.

Oddly, for many believers, the fewer hard credentials that the “messiah” possesses, the better, as was the case with Barack Obama. He had neither long term political experience or demonstrated business acumen. Indeed, he had no significant accomplishments and had built nothing, but he spoke well and sure looked good in a business suit…

Entire nations can be fooled for months and years on end when elected leaders, especially imperial types, drain the treasury and make promises which cannot be vetted for years on end. National economies are huge. The results of “wealth redistribution” via legislation or presidential “executive order” such as Joe Biden and company are doing, for social programs of nebulous merit, often take an exceedingly long time, if ever, to bear fruit.

Record All, Use the Best

On the evening with the “psychic,” it occurs to me that even if the crew records everything, they only need to save and use a fraction of it: Those interactions where the “psychic” said something which apparently was true for the audience member being tapped. If she does enough presentations, and makes plenty of pronouncements to enough people, the law of averages will be on her side. Her “demo” video can be edited to make her look like a psychic genius.

The “psychic” had called on at least 20 audience members, and other than the incident where she accurately mentioned two sons, she had gotten nothing else right on the money. Still with one highly successful interaction that evening, if she can string five or six from other evenings, she is ready for YouTube, DVDs, and a website, all offering “proof positive” that she has psychic abilities.

She can use such footage to be shown again and again to groups who seek “enlightenment” or entertainment. She can lure individual clients hoping for answers or who believe that she can contact the dead.

What a racket. Client, consumer, voter, and buyer: beware.

– – – – –

We'd love to hear your thoughts about this article. Please take a minute to share them in the comment section by clicking here. Or carry the conversation over on your favorite social network by clicking one of the share buttons below.

Jeff Davidson

Jeff Davidson is the world's only holder of the title "The Work-Life Balance Expert®" as awarded by the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office. He is the premier thought leader on work-life balance, integration, and harmony. Jeff speaks to organizations that seek to enhance their overall productivity by improving the effectiveness of their people. He is the author of Breathing Space, Simpler Living, Dial it Down, and Everyday Project Management. Visit www.BreathingSpace.com for more information on Jeff's keynote speeches and seminars, including: Managing the Pace with Grace® * Achieving Work-Life Balance™ * Managing Information and Communication Overload®

Join the conversation!

We have no tolerance for comments containing violence, racism, profanity, vulgarity, doxing, or discourteous behavior. Thank you for partnering with us to maintain fruitful conversation.

Up Next

Know How Now! Gun Loading Made Easy!

Don't Miss

Disabled Combat Vet Blasts Woke Military

Business

Dinesh D’Souza Launching Conservative Business Network to Defund the Left

Why give your money to people who hate you? That’s like tipping your executioner.

Published

2 weeks ago

November 13, 2023

News Staff

Are you a conservative business person? Then check out the Red Referral Network and partner with Dinesh D’Souza by clicking the banner below:

For years, conservative icon Dinesh D’Souza has told his followers that we need to create “parallel economies” and stop funding the left. It’s true, right? Why give your money to people who hate you? That’s like tipping your executioner.

It is easy to boycott large companies like Nike, Target and Anhauser-Busch, but what about all of the small businesses and companies who take the profits you give them and fund leftist politicians? Think about it, you spend $30,000 on a new roof and your liberal roofer donates $3000 to leftists politicians and they stand in the public square and call you a racist, homophobic, sexist, transphobic insurrectionist! That make NO sense at all.

That’s about to end once and for all. It is time to cut off ALL leftwing businesses from our money. Introducing the Red Referral Network (RRN).

Dinesh has partnered with Motivational Speaker’s Hall of Fame Member Chris Widener to launch an exclusive business network for conservatives in business. There are three primary reasons to join the RRN:

1. Refer business and be referred business by fellow local conservatives. Don’t refer to lefties anymore – refer to those who share your values and beliefs.

2. Get weekly support and encouragement from other conservatives.

3. Get exclusive content each and every week from Dinesh D’Sousa made just for RRN members.

Registration is free and you can find out more about the Red Referral Network by clicking here.

Top Ten Reasons to Join a Networking Group:

Are you a conservative business person? Then check out the Red Referral Network and partner with Dinesh D’Souza by clicking the banner below:

Participating in a business referral network can offer numerous benefits for business professionals. Here are ten reasons why joining such a network can be advantageous:

Lead Generation: Business referral networks provide a structured environment for exchanging leads and referrals. Members can refer potential clients and customers to one another, fostering new business opportunities.

Increased Visibility: Being part of a referral network enhances your visibility within the local business community. As you actively engage and contribute, your business becomes more recognizable, leading to increased brand awareness.

Building Relationships: Networking is all about building relationships. Joining a referral network allows you to connect with like-minded professionals, fostering relationships that can lead to long-term business partnerships and collaborations.

Trust and Credibility: Referrals from trusted sources carry a higher level of credibility. Being a part of a referral network implies a level of trust among members, making the referrals more reliable and effective.

Diverse Skill Sets: Business referral networks often comprise professionals from various industries and backgrounds. This diversity can be advantageous, as it provides access to a wide range of skills, expertise, and perspectives that can benefit your business.

Professional Development: Engaging with other professionals in a referral network provides opportunities for continuous learning and professional development. You can gain insights into industry trends, best practices, and new technologies.

Resource Sharing: Members of a referral network can share resources, such as tools, software, or even office space. This can lead to cost savings and operational efficiencies for all involved.

Positive Influence: Surrounding yourself with motivated and successful individuals can have a positive impact on your own mindset and business strategies. A referral network can serve as a source of inspiration and motivation.

Feedback and Advice: Business referral networks offer a supportive environment where members can seek feedback and advice from experienced professionals. This can be invaluable for overcoming challenges and making informed business decisions.

Community Involvement: Many referral networks are actively involved in community events and charitable activities. Joining such a network allows you to contribute to the community while also enhancing your business’s social responsibility image.

Remember, the success of a business referral network depends on active participation and genuine efforts to contribute to the network. Building relationships and providing value to others are key principles for maximizing the benefits of such networks.

Are you a conservative business person? Then check out the Red Referral Network and partner with Dinesh D’Souza by clicking the banner below:

Business

Why Conservative Capitalists Excel in Business

Published

2 months ago

October 13, 2023

Chris Widener

The world of business is a dynamic and complex arena where success depends on a combination of factors, including strategy, innovation, hard work, and adaptability. While various ideologies shape the landscape of entrepreneurship, conservative capitalists often stand out as exceptionally proficient in the business world. This article explores why conservative capitalists are often more successful in business and highlights the key principles and practices that contribute to their achievements.

I. Strong Embrace of Free Market Principles

Adam Smith’s “invisible hand” concept: Conservative capitalists firmly believe in the power of a free-market economy, as espoused by the renowned economist Adam Smith. They understand that when individuals are allowed to pursue their self-interest, the overall economy benefits. This principle guides their business decisions, allowing them to capitalize on market forces and competition.

Efficient resource allocation: Conservative capitalists prioritize efficiency in resource allocation, seeking to maximize their assets and investments. This approach enables them to minimize waste, reduce costs, and enhance their competitiveness.

II. Emphasis on Personal Responsibility

Accountability: One of the hallmarks of conservative capitalists is their unwavering commitment to personal responsibility. They believe that individuals, not the government, are responsible for their own success and failures. This mindset encourages prudent decision-making and risk management in business endeavors.

Risk-taking with caution: Conservative capitalists are not averse to taking risks, but they do so cautiously. They thoroughly analyze potential opportunities and pitfalls, ensuring that each risk is calculated and based on sound judgment. This approach minimizes reckless decisions and increases the likelihood of positive outcomes.

III. Limited Government Intervention

Minimal regulatory burden: Conservative capitalists favor minimal government intervention in business affairs. They argue that excessive regulations can stifle innovation and economic growth. By advocating for less government involvement, they create an environment where businesses can thrive and prosper.

Lower taxes: Reduced taxation is a key principle for conservative capitalists. Lower taxes leave more capital in the hands of businesses, enabling them to invest in growth, create jobs, and contribute to economic prosperity.

IV. A Long-term Perspective

Sustainability and stability: Conservative capitalists take a long-term view of their businesses. They prioritize sustainability and stability over short-term gains. This approach allows them to weather economic downturns and build enduring enterprises.

Legacy building: Many conservative capitalists view their businesses as a legacy to be passed down to future generations. This motivates them to make prudent decisions that ensure the longevity and success of their enterprises.

V. Embrace of Traditional Values

Ethical leadership: Conservative capitalists often adhere to strong ethical values in their business practices. This commitment to ethical leadership fosters trust among customers, employees, and partners, which is essential for long-term success.

Respect for traditional institutions: Traditional values, such as family, community, and faith, are highly regarded by conservative capitalists. These values often drive their business decisions, emphasizing the importance of personal relationships and community involvement.

VI. Adaptability and Innovation

Embracing change selectively: While conservative capitalists maintain traditional values, they are not resistant to change. They recognize the importance of adapting to evolving market conditions and technological advancements while staying true to their core principles.

Pragmatic innovation: Innovation is a cornerstone of business success, and conservative capitalists understand this. They invest in research and development and embrace technological advancements when they align with their business goals.

VII. Focus on Frugality

Efficient spending: Conservative capitalists are known for their frugality and conservative financial management. They scrutinize expenses, avoid unnecessary overhead, and prioritize cost-cutting measures, which ultimately leads to higher profitability.

Debt aversion: They tend to be cautious about accumulating debt, preferring to build their businesses on a solid financial foundation. This strategy reduces financial risk and ensures the sustainability of their enterprises.

Conclusion

Conservative capitalists have a strong track record of excelling in the business world due to their adherence to key principles and practices that promote success. Their commitment to free market principles, personal responsibility, limited government intervention, long-term planning, and ethical values sets them apart as formidable entrepreneurs. While every ideology has its merits and drawbacks, the conservative capitalist approach to business has consistently proven effective in achieving profitability, stability, and sustainability.