[OXM_1962]

An English corporate raider by the name of Goldsmith, who was the basis of the robber-baron turned good-guy in the movie "Wall Street," suggested many years ago that free trade should exist between similiar economies so that everyone in the First World is not totally undermined by cheap Third World labor. Free trade, or trade with minimal tariffs, between Japan, Australia, USA, Canada, Europe, et.al. would definately create enough competition to keep a lid on inflation and be condusive to middle class stability. In addition to strengthing our economies, it will definately strengthen our values!!

"Protectionism" is a loaded word whose use should be properly challenged. For the life of me I don't know why GM and Ford can't compete against Honda and Toyota. But I do know that I can't compete against cheap Chinese labor and that I'm not interested in lowering my standard of living until we reach an equilibrium with the new Chinese and Indian middle classes!

Ultimately we have to ultimately decide whether we are a nation or a market.

[Bandaneira]

Excellent post.

In a world of objectification everything becomes an object to be bought or sold. Many corporate business people are psychopaths who enjoy controlling others because they have no control over themselves. The only outlet they have to express their stunted, adolescent selves is in a business environment. Relating to another human being with kindness, empathy and respect is foreign to them and holds no appeal. Gentleness is boring for them.

Didn't someone say..."A cynic knows the price of everything and the value of nothing."

There is hope though. When the cannibals lose their appetite there is a chance for change.