Survivalism like any other field of interest has its own misconceptions. These inaccuracies arise for many reasons including ignorance, misrepresentation in the media, or just plain stupidity among those whom would considet themselves "survivalists." One popular misconception which has to do with the image aspect of survivalists. It's not hazardous like the next fanatasiesare but annoying nevertheless. At the height of the media frenzy over survivalists the general view was we are a lot of angry white rednecks usually of a ultra-right wing persuasion.

However- most of the ones I know are multiethnic freaks with colored hair, lots of facial jewelry, and of anarchist/ nihilist leanings. We encompass a cross section of the Amerikan population. Some you wouldn't recognize walking down the street. Some others whom I'd consider to be survivalists don't even know they are. We are the rich, poor, right, left, black, white, men, wimmin, young, old, gay, straight- in short- we are everywhere!

Another illusion which is very dangerous is the fantasy of survival through purely deadly force. People who practice this believe they're impregnable just because they have a gun, some ammo, and think they know how to kill. We're talking about tunnel-visioned dipshits that will sleep with a pistol next to their bed but don't have a fire extinguisher in the their house or carry condoms when they go out partying. Statistically speaking you're more likely to have a fire in your home than someone breaking into it with a gun. Plus, personally speaking I'd rather be shot than being burned to death or dying of AIDS. If you've ever seen pictures of either- I'm sure you'd agree. Survivalists should strive towards preparing for threats against life and liberty at all levels not just two-legged ones; including natural diasters, fires, medical emergencies, and even alien invasion (just kidding!).

The final illusion which can be just as dangerous as the last, is the fanatasy of possession over knowledge. This is partially the doing of businesses making money by marketing hi-tech survival toys while pitching the "you'd wish you bought this before the crash" line to boost sales. While some of these products are bargins and very useful, many others are either overpriced, unnecessary, or could be made yourself. There are two hazards in this "survival consumerism." The first one, is that it fosters overdependence upon technology. There's nothing wrong with wanting to make life easier but if you say use your GPS (Global Positioning System) receiver so much that your map and compass skills got rusty, you're in trouble. The second one, is that it encourages survivalists to forget the two most important pieces of equipment one could have and which cannot be bought in any store- common sense and the ability to improvise! These abilities can only be developed through practice and observation of those knowledgable in DIY techniques. Remember your mind is your primary weapon- Amen.

Dr. Malicious