The Politician's Guide to Intelligent Policy

The Prometheus Institute ^ | 3/20/2007 | M. Harrison

[tang0r]

Idea 1: Pigouvian Carbon Tax on Emissions

Stump speech/Campaign Ad proposal: "In recognition of the potential harm caused by global warming, as well as the dependence of the American economy and way of life on commerce and industry (read: pollution), I propose a carbon tax on all greenhouse emissions. This tax will discourage pollution and slow global warming, but without unnecessarily harming economic growth. It will also make sure citizens and companies alike pay their Fair Share for the depletion of our precious ozone they cause."

Answering your conservative critic: "My opponent wants to ignore the science that humans contribute to global warming, just like followers of Copernicus ignored the fact that the sun was at the center of the solar system. But have faith in science, just like Galileo did. Look where it got him."

Answering your liberal critic: "My opponent wants to "cap" emissions for certain companies. But that's a half-assed solution. Corporations are not the only polluters in the world - I want to punish your neighbor with the gas-guzzling V12 Excursion, AND your local private jet-setting celebrity, too." (Pause for standing ovation)

[RC2]

Politician and Intellegent in the same sentance doesn't make any sense.