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In my first few weeks of eLife I have learned a considerable more about eRep mechanics and tools, the fundamentals of the economy (are strong), the overriding political sentiments, and who gets things done around here than I ever thought I would.

The incredibly strong language in favor of eUS conquest and domination, which I felt radiating from every corner of our military, economic, and political spheres initially appalled me. I was appalled because of RL biases and also because of what some would consider unrealistic ideals for how I thought eRepublik (already with a vibrant and very established history) should look like.

I want to thank Ananias for allowing me to feed off his articles in exploring these ideas as well as those on the forums who humored me with discussion and were patient with my often-naive assumptions.

I am ready to express the balance I have found and the moderate stance I hope to pursue between what seem to be two polarizing philosophies of "Mechanics" vs. "Ideology" but are actually a broad spectrum in which a citizen might travel over the course of his/her eLife.

The main conclusion I have come to is that not all “mechanically” focused citizens want territorial conquest and not all “ideologically” focused citizens are pure pacifists. Certainly there is a place for both in our society… but most likely neither extreme allows for the most enjoyment of eRep. Pure conquistadors limit the game’s scope by pushing a single goal & endpoint, while pure pacifists ignore the pressures and plans of military enemies.

Contrary to popular opinion, I am no pure pacifist - and have even equipped my avatar with a Q1 weapon (hey, it’s all I can afford).

I am prepared to make the following statements confidently and find them to be the least controversial.

1. Game Mechanics DO come first and foremost as they are the parameters within which all of our decision-making must function.

2. Military strength IS very important and War Games have been a great thing for this nation (and all other nations who use the strategy). We will not effectively increase our military strength if we refuse to participate in every opportunity available to fight (whether we agree with it or not).

3. Military strength should be used very carefully and wisely. We should not attack just because we can nor should we attack a small country with few MPPs just to take advantage of its resources (though I don’t think using military force as a threat if these countries refuse to open trade that is essential for our sustenance is out of the question).

4. Respect is the key to making political headway. This seems to be our current presidents biggest weakness and a large stumbling block for congress as well. The anonymity provided by eRep makes it much easier to attack character with belittling, demeaning, and offensive language. This provides a barrier to progress because it creates a wall between citizens. I propose that we not only study game mechanics fervently, but also the opinions and ideologies of our fellow citizens and respectfully disagree when necessary, countering with logical alternatives.

5. I agree with the majority polled that working to increase eUS influence and power is a legitimate goal, so long as that influence and power is used responsibly and in an effort to protect sovereign nations and does not extend to the extreme of “conquest for the sake of conquest”.

Thank you all for a wonderful welcome to eRepublik. I hope I become a citizen who contributes more than daily work at max productivity and combat at max strength.