Liked what Phil said and will expand: Governments are often the only option for programs that are, in the LONG run, proven to be good for citizens overall. The example about libraries is a good one (dropping libraries!!!, but public education (which was vigorously opposed at one time) would be another, as is universal health care. And so is care of the poor, the disadvantaged, the elderly and the disabled. Damn it, SOME people do the right thing, but most do the most expedient and or cheapest thing. Government programs sometimes help us do right. This is not to say Governments don't do the right thing in a totally hopeless fashion sometimes. Or to say that they are always cost effective, or even always right. Cynic here, not hopeless romantic. Still, which part of "for profit" and "not for profit" don't US legislators understand?
As to the current debt crisis, it seems tailor made for grandstanding, waving the flag, and making everyone's hair a little greyer. The reality is that the debt ceiling HAS to be raised or we have global economic collapse. Oh, but those opposed don't really care about anyone but the USA, or their own state, right?
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branchandroot
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Date: 2011-07-31 03:46 pm (UTC)As to the current debt crisis, it seems tailor made for grandstanding, waving the flag, and making everyone's hair a little greyer. The reality is that the debt ceiling HAS to be raised or we have global economic collapse. Oh, but those opposed don't really care about anyone but the USA, or their own state, right?
Once again glad to be north of the border.