Good job, Chris. There are many factors that may lead us to conclude that small is better. However, there is a big downside to secession. I'm the senior editor for a group of alternative papers (Atlanta, Chicago, DC, Tampa, Charlotte, Sarasota), and I've written a lot on extremist groups -- from Christian Reconstruction to white nationalist outfits such as the League of the South. The League puts on a moderate spin when it is utilizing the credibility Naylor and Sale bring. However, the group is intrinsically white nationalist, as a review of the statements and papers of its leaders will confirm.

I attended the October secessionist conference in Chattanooga. Here's my report:

http://atlanta.creativeloafing.com/gyrobase/PrintFriendly?oid=oid%3A319063