We used to maintain a supply of critical materials but over time and listening to the BS of we all can get along, we ceased maintaining those stockpiles long ago. That was during a time when we had national leaders who actually thought of the US and defense first, not as an after thought. Yes there was an expense in doing that but it became more important to fund social BS items than to take care of the primary reason we actually have a federal government: defense.
You’re right on your assessment. But you are not complete as you don’t ponder why?
Everything in the world is a commodity. Everything is for sale. And if enough of it is sold, people are happy.
There are two types of demand of that infamous supply and demand thing: that which we have naturally like air, or that which is created and marketed, like diamonds. But even though people have to breath, people crave diamonds. (And I use these two as it can mean most anything in a category of worth...food, shelter, water vs, fancy homes, cars, dollars...)
Every human needs air. It is obviously the way we stay alive. But many people crave diamonds so much in many cases more than air, that they throw all common sense into the toilet. And shortages mean greater worth. Can’t get past that money thing, can we? Money is on the list, of want to have.
The N-95 mask is not the answer to the virus. It isn’t even that much of a protection. It’s marketed. The only true walking around protection is a self contain breathing apparatus (SCBA) like is used in hazmet suits. But you’ve got to take that off to eat and drink at some point and when the suit runs dry of air. So is it the answer? Not really when the virus has been tracked to stay alive on things for 9 days and a single cough or sneeze can reach 23 feet. That’s almost 4 times that six foot demand.
So is there a true way to escape the flu. Not really. This is why so many thousands of people die from it annually. But the shortage sure made headlines, didn’t it? And a few people a lot of money. Still can’t get past the money thing. Reeks of diamonds, doesn’t it?
rwood
See “military-industrial complex” for reference: stuff is cheaper from China and a lot of the weapons-centric contractors have lobbied for being able to source this stuff overseas. I spent about 10 years in the USAF ISR community and was repeatedly shocked at how deliberately obtuse that community was about the dangers of doing business with Commmunist China. And here we are...