Re: Ramsey Clark, former U.S. Attorney General, letter to UN
May I ask was this letter published? If so, what is its source? Thanks rmo
Re: What's the economy, Papa?
Well said! I am in favor of a citizen's allowance which is a variation of the gmi in that it is an entitlement that each citizen would receive an equal alloted portion of gross tax prceeds, regardless of income. This allowance would replace any and all other cash entitlement programs I am also in favor of the abolishment of all forms of taxation other than that derived from sales tax revenue and [100% taxation on estate amounts in excess of, lets say $5,000,000 ,which would then be divided equally among the population]. Perhaps we could start a subject entitled Redistribution of Wealth While Maintaining Incentives for Economic Advancement, or some such similar title. A society in which its members are in a state of constant uncertainty and upheavel, does not serve the interests of its citizens , and serving the interests of its citizens is what government should be all about. Robert
Fwd: SA and Work in oil-rich countries
--- Begin Message --- Lawry, In my opinion, the concept that one has to constantly retrain and pull up roots and jump around the country on a moments notice based on the fortunes, or more adequately, misfortunes of multinational companies is no answer. It is niegh physically and emotionally impossible to build a stable family and community using this failed model. I believe, we are witnessing the last stage or cancer stage of what has passed as Capitalism. We must realize also, that if the most gifted among us are no longer able to succeed using this model, then the vast majority of citizens are even less able to succeed. Ruthless behaviour and personal greed has been rewarded by corporate promotions in all too many cases. These ruthless individuals, in power, have managed to buy our national policy and the politicians no longer represent the citizenry. So, the first order on an agenda for change, in my opinion, would be the enfranchisement of the populace in the decisions of government in a direct participatory democracy. In the US, the Congress could be maintained and individual Senators and Congressmembers would still serve on committees, develop bills etc. However an interactive video model for the debate and subsequent vote would be put to the public. Safeguards against non informed citizens casting ballots could be incorporated by using tests designed by the debate principals which would have to be passed, prior to a vote being recorded. A national television station could run the debates 24-7 and citizens could take the tests as often as possible until passed, to become eligible to vote on a bill. This system could be carried out at local levels as well, and should gain popularity by being tested in one or more local areas. Incentives could also be built in to give citizens incentives such as tax breaks for each vote they cast. The idea that a representative democracy is somehow superiour to a direct democracy has no merit to most US citizens, who for the most part, believe that their government reps. have sold out to the highest bidder. This is a start, there is more, if you are interested. Robert --- End Message ---
Re: SA and Work in oil-rich countries
If I may be so bold as to jump into this discourse. It does seem obvious that we are on the verge of financial disaster here in the US. There is no decent safety net to take up the slack. As areas of the country are reeling from the collapse of the telecoms, the airways, and previously the dot. coms, one has to wonder only when, not if, the entire retail sector and housing sector will follow suit following in the footsteps of the most unlucky areas to date. Talented folk put out of work, with negative home equity, have a difficult time relocating and many wonder why bother, since the next remote employer may soon join the list of has been financial wonders. The crisis of faith has become systemic. The best and the brightest are finding that they are dispensible when they get a little age and bright, younger, eager replacements are waiting for jobs at a fraction of their older , but far from old, colleague's salaries. So doing the "right thing" , ie becoming educated and finding a good job, has turned out to be a reciept for economic ruin for thousands of techies. As long as the bottom line is the yardstick upon which all is measured, there can never be a bit of security or safety for American families. The disillusioned are more than ready to go where angels feared to tread just a few years ago. Many good plans could be implimented, but the propensity of the human ego to endlessly modify usually makes any workable plan impotent . We need a workable plan that can be accepted and we need some great orators and statesmen to disseminate. Robert
Re: Common Sense
To paraphrase the Dali Lama. Capitalism is the best way to create wealth and socialism is the best way to distribute it. Once a consensus is reached; which convinces the capitalists amongst us that a minimum citizen's allowance, that covers essential life needs, will benefit and encourage world production, promote individual wealth, while creating a stable, sane and decent world, we will have the basis for discusson on the implementation of such a system. This should not be too big a task.
Fwd: Intellectual Property (was Re: Fish and Chips)
--- Begin Message --- I have been reading the posts for a few months now, but this is my first contribution to the list. I understand the frustration of Ray Evans Harrell when he speaks of the broken system and self destructive ideas. What is evident is the dire need for the development of a practical economic and political system , which has at its goal and end product the happiness of the human community. I have some ideas along this line and suggest the development of a manifesto to emancipate humanity. Regards, rmo rmo --- End Message ---
Re: Intellectual Property (was Re: Fish and Chips)
I have been reading the posts for a few months now, but this is my first contribution to the list. I understand the frustration of Ray Evans Harrell when he speaks of the broken system and self destructive ideas. What is evident is the dire need for the development of a practical economic and political system , which has at its goal and end product the happiness of the human community. I have some ideas along this line and suggest the development of a manifesto to emancipate humanity. Regards, rmo rmo
EU admits: Euro currency a disaster
Just trying to post here and see if this address works . If so will be adding my 2 cents. rmo
