The Stimulus Package

[Bond]

Originally Posted by Professor S

Bond, why do you think fiscal conservatives have such a hard time making the argument that you did? It's so straight forward and simple when you put it in those terms. Do you think politicians are simply afraid that people won't understand the tax cut argument beyond the immediate affect to their pocket book?

Your guess is probably as good (or better) than mine. I do have a few ideas, though.

For one, I don't think most people want to deal with quantitative graphs, the distinction between tax rates and tax revenue, real numbers adjusted for inflation, etc.

Secondly, most of our politicians are lawyers, from liberal arts backgrounds. I would have to assume few understand economics. It's very complicated, and I only have a very basic understanding. As you go into more complex economic theory, the conclusions that are drawn become more and more subjective. But, I think it is possible to arrive at at least a few fundamental truths, at the most basic level, which the graphs I posted illustrate.

Also, economic discussions (really arguments) in politics always boils down to class warfare rhetoric, which is neither helpful, nor accurate. Each part of an economy depends on the other part: rich depend on poor, poor depend on rich, etc. The graphs are evident of this. The goal of economic policy, in my opinion, should always be to create the most wealth within the society (as I believe the creation of wealth is unlimited). Once you understand we are all interconnected, and all need to work toward wealth creation, there is no reason to hate thy neighbor, whether they be rich or poor. But that's just my view.

[KillerGremlin]

I plead ignorant, which is why I'm avoiding this discussion for the most part.

However, I think part of the problem is the media too. I mean, turn on FOX or CNN or even the extreme liberal media (Daily Show), and all they talk about is how the Republicans are all opposing the Stimulus, or how it is Dems vs. Pubs.

There is very little content actually explaining how our economy works, and why our economy is in such a shitty spot right now.

Does the mass media get a cookie for polarizing/stupidizing the American Public? How come the American public are too ignorant to be educated on their own economy. Of course that makes me a huge hypocrite, but when I have some time I would like to sit down and learn US Econ 101 because soon I'll be doing all my own taxes and stuff.