Martin Watkins
@mjw2.bsky.social
Retired social care professional.Dad to three, grandad to two.Married.I have a disability, refuse to let this stop me from gardening,dog walking and bird watching .I support Spurs and Lancashire cc.Socialist.Really like Pratchett,movies and nature.
created November 11, 2024
247 followers 407 following 289 posts
view profile on Bluesky Posts
Martin Watkins (@mjw2.bsky.social) reply parent
The Manchurian Candidate is a more accurate post for this vile, scary man.He really isn't fit to lead or be given a position of trust.He escapes taking responsibility for crimes and continues to blame others.Behaviour is weird and irrational.If Biden acted like this, condemnation would be deafening
Martin Watkins (@mjw2.bsky.social) reply parent
As the 'leader' of his 'party',will he be launching an investigation into his own conduct?
Martin Watkins (@mjw2.bsky.social) reply parent
I'm confused.Farridge and chums drone on about the "woke brigade" and "wokerati" when people complain about racist,homophobic and generally nasty 'jokes'.Free speech is trumpeted as the most important thing west of Clacton. When is free speech not allowed?Is it when someone upsets a fascist?
Martin Watkins (@mjw2.bsky.social) reply parent
I just watched CNN.Three Republicans,probably well educated men,were blatantly supporting anything Trump says and blaming Democrats or Republicans who disagree with him.If they appear to believe nonsense spouted by Trump,what confidence can we have that less well informed people can recognise truth?
Martin Watkins (@mjw2.bsky.social) reply parent
I don't think I have ever heard him answer a decent question.He usually tries to distract, lie, praise himself or blame someone else.I just can't understand why anyone would think he is a decent person, serious politician or cares about the UK / his constituency.He is a disgrace.
Martin Watkins (@mjw2.bsky.social) reply parent
He could be "Very ill" or"Far away" ...or both.Also,"doing" cloning takes a little time to get the shade of orange just right.
Martin Watkins (@mjw2.bsky.social) reply parent
Welcome back James.Hope you had a great holiday .All is fine in the world,so not much to discuss.
Martin Watkins (@mjw2.bsky.social) reply parent
Well...the Tories care more about making sure their base is happy and damn the planet /people who are struggling financially.BBC and other media allow Reform too much air time without enough balance,fact checking or challenge.
Martin Watkins (@mjw2.bsky.social) reply parent
Does Trump realise that most of these images posted make him look like a villain in a movie,deranged or simply ridiculous? Or all three ?
Martin Watkins (@mjw2.bsky.social) reply parent
When you have a Government run by a criminal ,why are you surprised that he should pardon and reward other criminals who support him?It is awful,but if you have a system that allows someone like Trump to become President ,it is time to change the system.
Martin Watkins (@mjw2.bsky.social) reply parent
I think it is disrespectful to not control access to guns and allow shootings to take place on a regular basis.If people pray or not it is a matter for them as to whether it provides comfort.However,the shootings continue. Action is required,even if unpopular with Trump's supporters.
Martin Watkins (@mjw2.bsky.social) reply parent
If Biden had said the same nonsense Trump says nearly every day,there would have been cries of "unfit for President" and references to dementia and other illnesses.
Martin Watkins (@mjw2.bsky.social) reply parent
Gutted.We missed out on Danny Ings.He was 15th on the possible signing list after all our other targets went to clubs they supported as a child .Nothing to do with getting more money,doing deals quickly or signing for anyone if it avoided dealing with Levy #COYS
Martin Watkins (@mjw2.bsky.social) reply parent
I agree,but I think some factual analysis might be more helpful than just listing what is wrong.Taxing the rich might be helpful,but first you must explain why demonisation of refugees is inaccurate, racist and illegal.More energy is needed to challenge lies and win over those who fall for the lies.
Martin Watkins (@mjw2.bsky.social) reply parent
One response to the issue of refugees is to highlight crimes some may/have commited.My sympathies are with the victims.However ,the majority of refugees do not commit crimes;a large number of people who are not refugees do.We can all cherry pick crimes from the headlines and find someone to blame.
Martin Watkins (@mjw2.bsky.social) reply parent
Shouldn't they provide real proof?Hatred,fear and racism unfettered by evidence or honesty.This is designed to further confuse those who believe anything Trump and his gang scream at them.Politicians should be hard working and balanced,using real data to work out what needs to improve.Disgusting.
Martin Watkins (@mjw2.bsky.social) reply parent
This decision from Sorbo and Baio is selfless when you consider it really reduces their chances of an Oscar.I was looking forward to'Twins Too'. I would imagine Californians are in turmoil at being denied the chance to bask in the sublime talents,integrity and judgement of this great double act.
Martin Watkins (@mjw2.bsky.social) reply parent
He certainly needs as much time at school as possible,so I think it unwise of Trump and Putin to allow him to miss the start of a brand new term.Young Nigel must stop trying to grab attention,instead spend time helping those in need.Volunteer for the RNLI and rescue people in all sizes of boats?
Martin Watkins (@mjw2.bsky.social) reply parent
Arsenal already discussed Eze as possible transfer before Havertz injury.Eze didn't sign for us..never thought he would due to existing interest from Arsenal and history with them.Levy is ponderous in transfer market but it looks like several people secretly agreed to help Eze return to Arsenal .
Martin Watkins (@mjw2.bsky.social) reply parent
He probably has his own really cool plastic Sheriff badge,rocking horse and cowboy hat. Isn't he also the supreme ruler of the Universe,Lord of the Cosmos,the Chosen One,Prince of Peace,Nobel prize winner elect and the Son of Godd,(spelt with two ds in order to avoid controversy)?
Martin Watkins (@mjw2.bsky.social) reply parent
Amazing that the self proclaimed genius and 'human being'Trump doesn't seem to be that bright.He obviously doesn't know more about grass than Botanists,Professional gardeners,Lawn specialists,Green keepers and cows. Can you 'regrass' sprinkler systems?I think it might affect water flow.
Martin Watkins (@mjw2.bsky.social) reply parent
Ugh.
Martin Watkins (@mjw2.bsky.social) reply parent
It is a disgrace when you look at the low pay of the people who do vital work.There are too many advisors, politicians and other non essential workers who make huge salaries while nurses,care workers,social workers,care/teaching assistants,nhs staff etc make a fraction of what they deserve to earn.
Martin Watkins (@mjw2.bsky.social) reply parent
For those of us who voted Labour,we unfortunately didn't take into account that there are now 3 versions of Tory to choose from...extreme right (Farage's mob),Far right (Conservative) and confused right (Labour).
Martin Watkins (@mjw2.bsky.social) reply parent
Same old story.Manager being let down by recruitment decisions.I always thought Arsenal would come back in for Eze.Spurs should have been prepared for this and acted quickly.Levy has no problem swiftly negotiating his own massive salary and setting prices for seats and merchandise #COYS
Martin Watkins (@mjw2.bsky.social) reply parent
JD Vance is probably my favourite satirical comedian at the moment.What a brilliant idea to mention Trump and the word genius in the same sentence.Vance has it all.He is a giant amongst current politicians.Charisma,intelligence, decency,honesty and diplomacy.All words he vaguely knows exist.
Martin Watkins (@mjw2.bsky.social) reply parent
It isn't just about clubs working out ways of getting bigger transfer fees or us slow signing players;a lot of clubs don't like Levy .Struggling to buy right players because we don't pay enough and negative perceptions.We needed new owners for some time,but try to fix it by changing managers #COYS
Martin Watkins (@mjw2.bsky.social) reply parent
I will not visit the USA while the elected Government pursue policies that are racist,sexist,homophobic and illegal.Also,how is it ok to elect a convicted felon and allow him to pardon himself? How is it alright for him to then pardon criminals we saw attack and injure officers just doing their job.
Martin Watkins (@mjw2.bsky.social) reply parent
Yes,Chris Philp probably thinks she did .I am shocked he can dress himself,let alone make it to France . Has Starmer instructed him to smash the criminal gangs running very small boats/paddle boards?In all seriousness,pathetic attempts at vigilante showboating are likely to result in serious injury
Martin Watkins (@mjw2.bsky.social)
@mrjamesob.bsky.social you just said that you like some part of laddish culture,such as football. Football is for men,women,boys and girls to take part in and enjoy .It isn't exclusively for ' lads'.
Martin Watkins (@mjw2.bsky.social) reply parent
Perhaps Zelensky hasn't supported Trump's attempt to secure the Peace Prize,which I presume he now wants to share with Putin?The Orange multiverse may shift to Putin acting responsibly invading the real aggressor.It doesn't make sense;neither does DT being President again when he should be in jail .
Martin Watkins (@mjw2.bsky.social) reply parent
Not only do you need more track, including turntables and sheds,you also need a lot more trains , coaches, trucks and a bigger house.
Martin Watkins (@mjw2.bsky.social) reply parent
All we need now is for Vance to appear at the White House dressed as Darth Vader while Emperor Trump announces plans for a Death Star.
Martin Watkins (@mjw2.bsky.social) reply parent
This is disgusting.Trump may be innocent,but these redacted documents should be properly investigated.If there is information relating to the abuse of children,it should not be controlled by those who may be implicated.The way this has been handled further destroys the reputation of the USA.
Martin Watkins (@mjw2.bsky.social) reply parent
We quite rightly get upset when groups of people target and abuse children.The need for truth and transparency is demanded. When very famous and powerful people are possibly involved,it often seems to be forgotten that alleged crimes against children should be properly investigated and action taken.
Martin Watkins (@mjw2.bsky.social)
@mrjamesob.bsky.social regarding the third runway,it depends on the environmental impact.We are doing enough damage already and Labour appears to have abandoned election promises.All decisions made need to consider long term environmental effects and impact upon our children and grandchildren.
Martin Watkins (@mjw2.bsky.social) reply parent
Money and power are probably the motivations.
Martin Watkins (@mjw2.bsky.social) reply parent
Also, Make-up artist of the year ,World dancing champion, Sportsperson of the year,Big Lou's Burger and Hog roast challenge winner and The Trump Award for being amazing at everything. Why that completely vile person could even be considered for any award,apart from a prison sentence ,is beyond me.
Martin Watkins (@mjw2.bsky.social) reply parent
Frank knows what he is doing.If Levy resists meddling and backs him with quality signings,we will be ok.Attracting quality signings is proving to be difficult.
Martin Watkins (@mjw2.bsky.social)
@mrjamesob.bsky.social I can't find any evidence that there are specific degrees on Harry Potter or Zombie Apocalypses.
Martin Watkins (@mjw2.bsky.social) reply parent
"Oh boy!"
Martin Watkins (@mjw2.bsky.social) reply parent
Not many players are signing for us either.
Martin Watkins (@mjw2.bsky.social) reply parent
It wouldn't surprise me.This transfer window is farcical.The manager should already have a squad to work with,not wait until the last minute to see how cut price deals fit into Levy's vision of challenging for titles.I am waiting for breaking news that we are bringing back Winks and Skipp #COYS#THFC
Martin Watkins (@mjw2.bsky.social) reply parent
I feel upset and uneasy from constant exposure to racist behaviour,injustice and awful people abusing power and influence throughout the world.It feels like it is all the time and no one seems to be able to challenge it.Free speech only seems to be accepted if fascists are spouting hatred.
Martin Watkins (@mjw2.bsky.social) reply parent
I also think it is an indication that he does care as he is going that extra mile in irritating the opposition.
Martin Watkins (@mjw2.bsky.social) reply parent
Yes
Martin Watkins (@mjw2.bsky.social) reply parent
You are brave getting into any lakes or rivers in Britain at the moment.I hope you remain well enough to present your show next week.
Martin Watkins (@mjw2.bsky.social) reply parent
Ferrari said many times that Labour and the Unions are "too cosy and friendly"Not true, obviously.If this 'Labour'govt hadn't abandoned a lot of election pledges,would strike have been called?Can Ferrari host show in Clacton with his fascist mate in order for constituents to at last meet their MP?
Martin Watkins (@mjw2.bsky.social) reply parent
He will leap into action if a small boat is sighted next time he visits Clacton ,probably in a couple of years. He is too busy appearing on TV,visiting the 🍊 and talking complete garbage without any concern about fact checking.
Martin Watkins (@mjw2.bsky.social) reply parent
None of them will want to be Mr Brown.Mr Orange isn't in this picture,but I believe he is visiting the UK soon?
Martin Watkins (@mjw2.bsky.social) reply parent
Good. No choice.Time to be honest and open.If some don't vote for them,that isn't important.What is ?Take seriously the responsibility of managing UK resources efficiently and fairly.Not hammering those who are the most vulnerable.We need to use the taxes raised to support key underfunded services.
Martin Watkins (@mjw2.bsky.social) reply parent
I remember them well.Brilliant skiffle, jazz punk, brass band collective. I believe the band was originally called Ploopy Knob and the FatJabs ?Later evolved into Orange knob when Ploopy left.
Martin Watkins (@mjw2.bsky.social) reply parent
It's a real shock that Farage is a less than diligent MP.Who would have known?
Martin Watkins (@mjw2.bsky.social)
🌳 Dame Judi Dench is calling for the return of ancient woodlands. Will you sign the petition to help restore the Ghost Woods and protect our green spaces for future generations? you.38degrees.org.uk/petitions/br...
Martin Watkins (@mjw2.bsky.social)
@mrjamesob.bsky.social ,please,no more apps.It is already hard getting through to GPs.Some people don't use laptops or just have a very basic phone,as it is all they can afford.I also don't want to use something that makes people redundant and relies upon me to do the work of NHS staff while unwell.
Martin Watkins (@mjw2.bsky.social)
@mrjamesob.bsky.social in terms of relying upon politicians,l found the Labour MP,Justin Madders,to be very helpful in assisting me in sorting out issues relating to disability support and health.He dealt with it very quickly .I don't want any more apps I want to talk to a real person ,not Ai.
Martin Watkins (@mjw2.bsky.social) reply parent
Well,he isn't interested in being an MP,or doing anything to help people who aren't well off or full of hatred,so he would be 'perfect' for the role of PM. USA not a great example of governing properly as the people in charge are generally incompetent ,greedy sycophants.His sort of people.
Martin Watkins (@mjw2.bsky.social) reply parent
PMQs are hideous.People chosen to represent us behave like over privileged twits.Badenoch is horrendous ,relishing the distress of others.No idea what the Speaker does,apart from occasionally making idle threats .Reeves and Starmer have cases to answer for mistakes,but no one deserves bullying .
Martin Watkins (@mjw2.bsky.social)
@mrjamesob.bsky.social at present I wouldn't vote Labour as I have always done .Communication poor,too interested in not offending people who might not usually vote for Labour and too many botched decisions.It just feels aimless,weak and badly planned.Good things done are lost in the fog of errors.
Martin Watkins (@mjw2.bsky.social) reply parent
I am glad Starmer listened to people who raised concerns.However,he should have realised there would be issues arising from this change in policy.It worries me that this Government are making decisions that have not been properly communicated to us first and then climb down when it is opposed..
Martin Watkins (@mjw2.bsky.social) reply parent
He is the best prime minister we have had since Gordon Brown.Not a glowing recommendation.Given that he is a successful lawyer,you might hope he would be more thoughtful in his decision making.Ruthless and hard nosed with the vulnerable,not so brave with the rich and powerful.
Martin Watkins (@mjw2.bsky.social) reply parent
Shameful that we are having to discuss a walking disaster like Trump or feel we have to pander to his tantrums.Something is seriously wrong in the world if someone so unsuited to governance is voted in as part of democratic process.He wouldn't even pass initial suitability checks for a lot of jobs.
Martin Watkins (@mjw2.bsky.social) reply parent
Is Trump running any courses that help us keep oil prices down,as I presume this request from the President of the Universe is for all of us?I don't think I have the necessary skill set or influence required,but looking at the USA at present, that doesn't seem to matter.
Martin Watkins (@mjw2.bsky.social) reply parent
Thanks for your support of disabled people.I have been quite unpleasantly surprised by the cruel/insensitive treatment we have received from a Labour Government.In addition,they have reacted disappointingly to climate change,pollution,protecting wildlife and responses to leaders of other nations .
Martin Watkins (@mjw2.bsky.social) reply parent
This isn't a real Labour Govt.They have drifted to the right and given the vile Reform party a chance of power.They have abandoned any real attempt to deal with supporting the vulnerable,reducing climate change/pollution and protecting wildlife.I will not vote for them again until they change.
Martin Watkins (@mjw2.bsky.social) reply parent
Wayne doesn't seem to be a details man.I presume as there are only 3 things on the graveyard dead list,we would be safe if we threw a doughnut or chicken wing?Are there different categories of dead in the USA now?Law enforcement doesn't seem to be the right career for Wayne.
Martin Watkins (@mjw2.bsky.social) reply parent
You are right.A lot of Spurs supporters,including me,are upset that Levy sacked Ange.We won a trophy,had a chance to gain confidence from that and go on to win more.If Spurs had finished 4th and won nothing,Ange would still be here.I hope Ange gets a better job, for a club that appreciates him.
Martin Watkins (@mjw2.bsky.social)
The delay in sacking Ange went on for ages.It was clear what Levy was going to do as it is what he always does.If we had finished fourth and not won a trophy, Ange would still be manager.If Frank and other choices say no and there is the usual delay,I am sure Levy is aware Carrick is available #COYS
Martin Watkins (@mjw2.bsky.social) reply parent
At last Levy appeared to be sticking with a manager through problem results/horrendous injury list.Then he did what I feared he would do.Long delay after trophy,have a holiday,flog new shirts and listen to the Ange haters.Now delay to appoint new manager when we should be preparing for next season.
Martin Watkins (@mjw2.bsky.social) reply parent
Not only is the decision wrong,it took too long.If"the board"are really serious about success and not just about earning money from league placement,rip off seat and shirt prices, they should have stuck with someone who won something .Asking a lot of new manager to handle fall out from the team.
Martin Watkins (@mjw2.bsky.social) reply parent
Now the new shirts have arrived and Levy finishes his holiday,will what is left of the board get on with it?The lack of action and communication is amateurish and unkind to manager,players and the supporters.We won something.Great.We now need to be better in the league and have a stronger squad.
Martin Watkins (@mjw2.bsky.social) reply parent
Good.While doing this,perhaps the Government could have a think about the pressure already placed on staff carrying out existing PIP assessments.They must feel heavily criticised for supporting PIP claims.I know from experience as PIP stopped months ago; appeal not due to be answered until August.
Martin Watkins (@mjw2.bsky.social) reply parent
Perhaps they were expecting him to be better at breaking laws and getting away with it?They obviously hadn't tuned in to series 1 of 'Taco in the White House.'Series 2 is packed with weirdos who haven't learnt their lines,are as deluded/stupid as Trump and are unable to cover up his many mistakes.
Martin Watkins (@mjw2.bsky.social) reply parent
If this is true, don't the people who lost their jobs based on his recommendations have an even stronger case for wrongful dismissal?
Martin Watkins (@mjw2.bsky.social) reply parent
Can people recommend that Trump's position is terminated as he has the intelligence and moral decency of a brick ?He is also,just a little bit of course,quite biased, unreasonable and a danger to the planet .
Martin Watkins (@mjw2.bsky.social) reply parent
Trump only feels sorry for Trump.He has no empathy,compassion or decency.The stuff he says and does is so weird and dangerous,it is a worry that he will 'lose it'completely.The incompetent,greedy sycophants surrounding him are too gutless and stupid to stand up to him or understand that they should.
Martin Watkins (@mjw2.bsky.social)
On a trip to Iceland and return to Liverpool by sea we were very lucky to see a lot of beautiful scenery,birds,whales and dolphins #nature #birds.
Martin Watkins (@mjw2.bsky.social)
Visited Iceland/Faroe islands.Amazing opportunity to see whales,dolphins,porpoises ,birds on the voyage.Raven,Eider, Ptarmigan,,Arctic tern, Kittiwake,Puffin,Gannet,Fulmar, Guillemot,whooper swan,Pink footed geese,short eared owl plus Humpback,Sperm,Minke,Fin whale,Orca,dolphin,porpoise #birds
Martin Watkins (@mjw2.bsky.social) reply parent
Despite my disappointment with the party that calls itself Labour,nothing would persuade me to vote for a right wing party under any circumstances.Just because I disagree with Labour now doesn't mean I would abandon principles and vote for Farage's mob .Or Labour at present.
Martin Watkins (@mjw2.bsky.social) reply parent
I agree and think Trump's whole 'Government',including whatever role Musk has,as being extremely dangerous.Not just to everyone in the USA,but to all of us in the rest of this increasingly fragile planet .
Martin Watkins (@mjw2.bsky.social) reply parent
My son went to the match.He said it threatened to break out into a game of football in the first half but the spectators were soon reassured as normal service was resumed.It wasn't great,but at least we didn't lose.
Martin Watkins (@mjw2.bsky.social) reply parent
Trump is a dangerous idiot.I wouldn't leave him in charge of a sharp pencil,let alone one of the most powerful countries .Disrespecting the Pope,Ukraine and allies plus unveiling deranged tariffs (and many more blunders) is a normal week for him.Any other President would be judged unfit to lead.
Martin Watkins (@mjw2.bsky.social)
@mrjamesob.bsky.social apart from Trump saving three quarters of the USA population,he also prevented all the cats and dogs being eaten in Springfield.A lemon tree in Shelbyville has also been rescued .
Martin Watkins (@mjw2.bsky.social) reply parent
It is 24.
Martin Watkins (@mjw2.bsky.social) reply parent
I don't think he talks out of his mouth.His disgusting attitude towards Ukraine,behaviour in Greenland and general willingness to ingratiate himself with Trump and MAGA marks him out as a contemptible politician and human being .The USA and the rest of the world aren't safe with this mob in power.
Martin Watkins (@mjw2.bsky.social) reply parent
I don't think criminals and liars like being judged by judges. Or voters.
Martin Watkins (@mjw2.bsky.social) reply parent
Didn't expect a win.Did expect us to entertain supporters who spent a lot of money to get there. Don't care if we win a Euro trophy while we play most games so badly,without organisation or heart.We do have good players.They need to believe in themselves and have leadership that adapts/motivates.
Martin Watkins (@mjw2.bsky.social) reply parent
Thank God the USA voted in a dynamic/inspiring leader and got rid of 'Sleepy Joe'. How is it that this nasty clown behaves so irresponsibly, can't string one sentence together(let alone two) and acts in a confused/confusing manner and gets away with it? Biden got ripped to shreds for far less .
Martin Watkins (@mjw2.bsky.social) reply parent
How it is done effectively would be a matter for all EU countries to agree.As I said before,if there isn't a willingness to make it work, whatever command structure is in place,it will not be successful .
Martin Watkins (@mjw2.bsky.social) reply parent
Thanks . Isn't a European version of NATO still a European army,with the issues of leadership and role to be agreed amongst members of the EU? Problems can be overcome if there is a willingness to make it work. I agree,we need to be back in the EU.
Martin Watkins (@mjw2.bsky.social) reply parent
Only 95 days?It feels much longer.
Martin Watkins (@mjw2.bsky.social) reply parent
I think fears about a European army had 3 elements.First, some still mistrust alliances with other countries.Second,unwillingness to hand over authority to another nation.Third,we aren't great with changes to what we are used to. It is a good idea,though would we be allowed to join as not in EU?
Martin Watkins (@mjw2.bsky.social) reply parent
Did he blame someone else for this as well?
Martin Watkins (@mjw2.bsky.social) reply parent
Thank goodness he did.One Donald is enough.
Martin Watkins (@mjw2.bsky.social) reply parent
Unusual?
Martin Watkins (@mjw2.bsky.social)
@debbieabrahamsmp.bsky.social my PIP just stopped for reasons so laughable if I wasn't so upset.I only claimed it because advised I was entitled to it .I choose to claim nothing else.Will get state pension next year.This new system is throwing baby out with bath water.Incompetent and cruel.
Martin Watkins (@mjw2.bsky.social) reply parent
I have just been subjected to the new PIP review and now receive no financial support.I am having to cope on my work pension and will get state pension next year.Worked over 40 yrs,badly injured,wanted to work, can't work .Process used was unfair and challengeable.Just so tired of all of this.
Martin Watkins (@mjw2.bsky.social)
In turmoil caused by Pip being stopped.Not going into details,but grim .How it was done was insensitive and incorrect.Now just living off work pension until state retirement early next year.Not going to be able to work and I refuse to claim other entitlements as suggested by my Labour MP #disability
Martin Watkins (@mjw2.bsky.social)
@mrjamesob.bsky.social Glad you are fed up with Starmer's timidity.Shame he isn't frightened of disabled people.Brexit needs to be a starting point,not charge in with half formed plans that penalise disabled people .Speaking as a disabled person who has been penalised and has to fight this nonsense
Martin Watkins (@mjw2.bsky.social) reply parent
I agree with everything you said. The only thing I struggle with is calling this Government Labour .It is soft Tory at best.Gutless over Brexit,heartless about disabled people and breaking election promises,especially over the environment, out of self interest.