The insane theory

The myth has also been central to Ron Paul's message-he has even introduced the issue before national audiences at presidential debates. It has resonated with millions of Americans because it preys on their nativistic prejudices and (often legitimate) concerns about globalization.

To be fair, the NAU theory (like any good conspiracy theory) has some basis in fact. The facts have been so distorted by the paranoiac fringe, however, that the NAU theory bears little resemblance to reality.

There is a substantial road in the works. In 2002, Republican Gov. Rick Perry of Texas unveiled a proposal for the "Trans-Texas Corridor." The road, while highly unpopular with some Texans, was approved by the state legislature and the governor. But it is a state initiative, not a covert and concerted effort to build a "NAFTA Superhighway." [...]

What about the "amero," the rumored currency of the NAU? Some political scientists have entertained the idea, but there is currently no evidence the federal government plans to ditch the dollar. Absent a constitutional amendment, the "amero" isn't remotely possible. Article I, Section 8 of the Constitution gives Congress the power "to coin money, regulate the value thereof … and fix the standard of weights and measure. [...] So this conspiracy theory is bunk. But don't take this liberal's word for it. The NAU theory has come under heavy friendly fire, too.

Jed Babbin, editor of the conservative newspaper Human Events, for which Corsi writes, compared people who believe in an impending NAU to those who believe in Bigfoot.

Michael Medved, a far-right talk show host, has called the theory "ludicrous," "childish," "ill-informed," "manipulative" and "brain dead."

Charles Krauthammer, a prominent conservative thinker and writer, said, "I love (the NAU theory) because if you ever doubt your own sanity, all you have to do is read this stuff and realize that you're OK."

And if your theory is too crazy for Krauthammer, then perhaps it's time you do doubt your own sanity.

by Jon "The Debunker" Adams

Source: UtahStatesMan.com