If my previous blog interested you please read this article published by The New York Times just a few days ago by Paul Krugman titled "Fiscal Scare Tactics".This article just reaffirmed all of my opinions. His qualifications for economic discussion and his genius are way too long to list. From professor of Economics at Princeton as well as rated #6 out of 100 global thinkers in the US, to winning a Nobel Prize on his work in Economics. Here is some of my favorite parts of what he had to say Feb 4th in the NYT (but I suggest the article in its fullness!) :
"To me — and I’m not alone in this — the sudden outbreak of deficit hysteria brings back memories of the groupthink that took hold during the run-up to the Iraq war. Now, as then, dubious allegations, not backed by hard evidence, are being reported as if they have been established beyond a shadow of a doubt. Now, as then, much of the political and media establishments have bought into the notion that we must take drastic action quickly, even though there hasn’t been any new information to justify this sudden urgency. Now, as then, those who challenge the prevailing narrative, no matter how strong their case and no matter how solid their background, are being marginalized."
"Let’s talk for a moment about budget reality. Contrary to what you often hear, the large deficit the federal government is running right now isn’t the result of runaway spending growth. Instead, well more than half of the deficit was caused by the ongoing economic crisis, which has led to a plunge in tax receipts, required federal bailouts of financial institutions, and been met — appropriately — with temporary measures to stimulate growth and support employment."
"The point is that running big deficits in the face of the worst economic slump since the 1930s is actually the right thing to do. If anything, deficits should be bigger than they are because the government should be doing more than it is to create jobs."
"Why, then, all the hysteria? The answer is politics."
".......deficit fear-mongering has become a key part of Republican political strategy, doing double duty: it damages President Obama’s image even as it cripples his policy agenda. And if the hypocrisy is breathtaking — politicians who voted for budget-busting tax cuts posing as apostles of fiscal rectitude, politicians demonizing attempts to rein in Medicare costs one day (death panels!), then denouncing excessive government spending the next — well, what else is new?"
"For the fact is that thanks to deficit hysteria, Washington now has its priorities all wrong: all the talk is about how to shave a few billion dollars off government spending, while there’s hardly any willingness to tackle mass unemployment. Policy is headed in the wrong direction — and millions of Americans will pay the price."
Amen to that.. I definitely could not have said it better. I wonder if many of you are interested in these topics at all. Politics is a realm that many don't want to get involved in- just live blissfully in ignorance. I know I've been there so I don't judge. But I know the best thing people can do for themselves is to be informed and aware of current events and issues- so that we can intelligently raise our voice when the time comes to vote.
Saturday, February 6, 2010
Friday, February 5, 2010
Tea Party Movement?? Let me rant a little.
A lot of people may be wondering what this Tea Party Movement is all about- a recent poll as reported on CNN states 4 in 10 had not heard of Tea Parties or had no opinion about them.
This is my opinion- I think the recent Tea Party Movement is a joke.
The Tea Party was originally in opposition to British oppression and "taxes WITHOUT representation." What I love is that people have taken this movement out of context to create their own "Tea Party Movement" to oppose any tax raises or government spending. I will admit I hardly know all the details on where our government's increase in budget spending is going or tax increases but I think before people jump to conclusions. Another funny part is that Obama's proposed tax raises on those of a salary above 250,00 per year, is in no way going to pay for people in Britain or if Obama keeps what he says- affect these people protesting on the streets at all- who I assume aren't those making above that salary. Oh.. the irony of politics.
Also those who claim to be constitutionalists or in favor of Constitutional rights- are in essence assuming that everyone else is not in favor this? "No I don't want to uphold the constitution." Obama wants to propose a new health care plan or change the existing one and all of a sudden he is not upholding the Constitution. This seems very presumptuous and uneducated to me.
I found this on their website:
"We, the members of The Tea Party Patriots, are inspired by our founding documents and regard the Constitution of the United States to be the supreme law of the land. We believe that it is possible to know the original intent?? of the government our founders set forth, and stand in support of that intent."
I am glad people are being engaged in politics, I commend them for their efforts. But "to know the original intent" of the government our founders set forth is to in some degree-to directly interpret, from what my understanding is, a document that left much room for liberal interpretation. This kind of interpretation bothers me. You are basically opposing our government under the assumption that it is not following its constitutional roots. Let's be serious. To oversimplify- If our government was not in support of the Constitution I think we would have a lot of bigger issues and they would be a lot more blatant. In regards to the car bailout whom they oppose I say- when a president acts in a way that he feels will benefit the general welfare- AND he has received his information from some of our nation's greatest scholars on economics- maybe we shouldn't just jump to the conclusion that he's trying to take your money for his own personal pleasure?- or that his spending is wreck less or thought less. This recent tea party is just an outlet for Republicans to oppose or attack Obama more. Also on their site:
"Free Markets: A free market is the economic consequence of personal liberty. The founders believed that personal and economic freedom were indivisible, as do we. Our current government's interference distorts the free market and inhibits the pursuit of individual and economic liberty. Therefore, we support a return to the free market principles on which this nation was founded and oppose government intervention into the operations of private business."
I agree and disagree to this above statement on the Constitution because again the members of the "Tea Party Movement" are presupposing that the bail out was a crutch to the free market. While it was direct interference I think it is extremist or naive to claim that the government never should or never does interfere with the free market to regulate conditions in order to benefit consumers or vice versa businesses- for the general welfare of the people.
While I was the first to oppose the bailout of the car industry, I learned about the national and even global implications their downfall would have caused. Thousands would be without a job. Also the US economy is linked with the global economy. When we are in a recession the whole world is affected by it. If the bailout did not occur the US situation of unemployment and the failing economy would be even worse than it is now.
Everyone is entitled to their own opinion- and my personal opinion is that before you jump on the band wagon to blindly oppose "big spending" or "taxes" because you are really telling them you tea party- take a minute to think about how the government is trying to help our current situation. Not to say that government has never made a dumb decision- but to realize that the redistribution of wealth to help individuals- people like you and me- in this nation who are struggling is not the worst idea Obama could propose. In fact- I'd venture to say like our Preamble to the Constitution states that "insur(ing) domestic tranquility" and "promoting the general welfare" is what Christ would do if he were here.
Ohh bLoggy Blog Blogger Blog Friend
Life is busy right now. I wish I had more time or was more motivated to write funny or interesting things on you.
On a side note- Shout out to BYU's SPJ Club (Society of Professional Journalist). Today felt hardly professional but we met as a club, ate pizza, frosted cookies, (obviously not BYU's health club) and talked a little bit about journalism.
I'm still kind of exploring my niche in Journalism - because even though I've narrowed down that I want to be a journalist with the age of internet and independent news- I could do almost anything just in Journalism.
My latest venture is a minor in Political Science. I think the Lord works in mysterious ways- or we just take the consequences of our actions- either way I signed up late for classes this past winter and was not able to get into A SINGLE class for my communications major. Which communications classes happen to be the ONLY ones I need to graduate- I've already finished the lengthy General Education Core BYU requires along with my 12 religion credits- so all I needed were these classes.. that I kind of waited to long to sign up for.
On a happier note- I decided to start a Political Science Minor to continue my Educational Pursuits despite the unfortunate event of my not signing up in time. I am enjoying the minor so much that Tor suggested I double major in it.. and I thought for a second- that might not be a bad idea.
Tor is double majoring in International Relations and Economics and always amazes me with the 'stuff ' he knows. He is an adamant Obama supporter and always a voice of reason when it comes to the conservative slant found here at BYU.
I personally can't stand people who I feel think they know everything on a specific topic. Who form an opinion, which may or may not be a very educated opinion, and adamantly support it with all their will. You see that a lot in politics. I understand there is credibility in standing up for your beliefs or your positions, but sometimes I think people could be more open minded. Or at least open to UNDERSTANDING an opposing viewpoint. I sound like I'm trying to point fingers or promote tolerance of ideas that are against personal values or religious beliefs- those are not my intentions. But I just want someone who makes these kind of claims- that a certain political viewpoint is against their religious beliefs- to do their research.
I'm trying to sound vague but my bias are probably really obvious.
On that same stream of thought. I'm taking a political philosophy this semester and we are discussing the origins of political philosophy in Greece. Why did most political thought originate here?
Some say it was their geography, diversity, or.. the idea that they were the first to see the world as a problem to solve.
Pre- Socratic philosophy is mainly focused on exploring the cosmos and the natural world/ universe.
Socrates came along with that same train of philosophy until as we learn from one source, Plato's Apology, Socrates claimed that he had a unique "human wisdom"
What was this wisdom you ask?? =)
While a majority of philosophy in that time sought after the question of the "bona vita" or translated "the good life?"Socrates argued that what is honorable or the good life is in living a "higher law" Many did not have reason to justify their actions. Virtue or honor were based on public opinion- who was the greatest warrior- and not on substantial merits. Greek Gods are notorious for wars, killing, lust, vanity, and sex.While Socrates lived he challenged what was mainstream thought. He was charged for "corrupting the youth." But yet while he lived his greatest wisdom was in realizing that he knows that he doesn't know. He didn't believe in the Greek Gods like everyone else and he didn't follow the laws of the land or the city. While this sounds extremely rebellious- it was this man who decided to question the norms that is now credited for being one of the founders of Western philosophy and even more one of the greatest contributors to the study of ethics.
Their is simplicity in realizing that sometimes we don't have all the answers or the reason to justify our thought. I think too many times as "adults" we feel it is our role to know everything. To make an assumption or jump at a conclusion because based on our life experiences this has become our personal bias. I am with Socrates- when it comes to living- there is much more peace in having substance behind your actions, realizing the 'reason' or 'purpose' you do things, and seeking for that which has not been understood.
I am a communications major first because this "exchange of ideas" or "conversation" is something I firmly believe in. It is while we test our ideas or philosophy with the opposing viewpoint that we can really build a credible argument or agreement.
Now I loved that my philosophy teacher made clear to point out that, "It doesn't take a smart person to be a skeptic, just a smart allic." When we ask questions with interest in the answers rather than just rashly opposing something for opposition's sake- that is when we reach real answers, I believe.
My blog doesn't do Socrates or Plato any justice- but I suggest their readings and the study of the origins of modern Western Philosophy.... Whew. Maybe I should sleep now. If you read this whole post you are great and amazing =) And I apologize for any misinformation or simplification.
On a side note- Shout out to BYU's SPJ Club (Society of Professional Journalist). Today felt hardly professional but we met as a club, ate pizza, frosted cookies, (obviously not BYU's health club) and talked a little bit about journalism.
I'm still kind of exploring my niche in Journalism - because even though I've narrowed down that I want to be a journalist with the age of internet and independent news- I could do almost anything just in Journalism.
My latest venture is a minor in Political Science. I think the Lord works in mysterious ways- or we just take the consequences of our actions- either way I signed up late for classes this past winter and was not able to get into A SINGLE class for my communications major. Which communications classes happen to be the ONLY ones I need to graduate- I've already finished the lengthy General Education Core BYU requires along with my 12 religion credits- so all I needed were these classes.. that I kind of waited to long to sign up for.
On a happier note- I decided to start a Political Science Minor to continue my Educational Pursuits despite the unfortunate event of my not signing up in time. I am enjoying the minor so much that Tor suggested I double major in it.. and I thought for a second- that might not be a bad idea.
Tor is double majoring in International Relations and Economics and always amazes me with the 'stuff ' he knows. He is an adamant Obama supporter and always a voice of reason when it comes to the conservative slant found here at BYU.
I personally can't stand people who I feel think they know everything on a specific topic. Who form an opinion, which may or may not be a very educated opinion, and adamantly support it with all their will. You see that a lot in politics. I understand there is credibility in standing up for your beliefs or your positions, but sometimes I think people could be more open minded. Or at least open to UNDERSTANDING an opposing viewpoint. I sound like I'm trying to point fingers or promote tolerance of ideas that are against personal values or religious beliefs- those are not my intentions. But I just want someone who makes these kind of claims- that a certain political viewpoint is against their religious beliefs- to do their research.
I'm trying to sound vague but my bias are probably really obvious.
On that same stream of thought. I'm taking a political philosophy this semester and we are discussing the origins of political philosophy in Greece. Why did most political thought originate here?
Some say it was their geography, diversity, or.. the idea that they were the first to see the world as a problem to solve.
Pre- Socratic philosophy is mainly focused on exploring the cosmos and the natural world/ universe.
Socrates came along with that same train of philosophy until as we learn from one source, Plato's Apology, Socrates claimed that he had a unique "human wisdom"
What was this wisdom you ask?? =)
While a majority of philosophy in that time sought after the question of the "bona vita" or translated "the good life?"Socrates argued that what is honorable or the good life is in living a "higher law" Many did not have reason to justify their actions. Virtue or honor were based on public opinion- who was the greatest warrior- and not on substantial merits. Greek Gods are notorious for wars, killing, lust, vanity, and sex.While Socrates lived he challenged what was mainstream thought. He was charged for "corrupting the youth." But yet while he lived his greatest wisdom was in realizing that he knows that he doesn't know. He didn't believe in the Greek Gods like everyone else and he didn't follow the laws of the land or the city. While this sounds extremely rebellious- it was this man who decided to question the norms that is now credited for being one of the founders of Western philosophy and even more one of the greatest contributors to the study of ethics.
Their is simplicity in realizing that sometimes we don't have all the answers or the reason to justify our thought. I think too many times as "adults" we feel it is our role to know everything. To make an assumption or jump at a conclusion because based on our life experiences this has become our personal bias. I am with Socrates- when it comes to living- there is much more peace in having substance behind your actions, realizing the 'reason' or 'purpose' you do things, and seeking for that which has not been understood.
I am a communications major first because this "exchange of ideas" or "conversation" is something I firmly believe in. It is while we test our ideas or philosophy with the opposing viewpoint that we can really build a credible argument or agreement.
Now I loved that my philosophy teacher made clear to point out that, "It doesn't take a smart person to be a skeptic, just a smart allic." When we ask questions with interest in the answers rather than just rashly opposing something for opposition's sake- that is when we reach real answers, I believe.
My blog doesn't do Socrates or Plato any justice- but I suggest their readings and the study of the origins of modern Western Philosophy.... Whew. Maybe I should sleep now. If you read this whole post you are great and amazing =) And I apologize for any misinformation or simplification.
Sunday, January 17, 2010
More Healthcare Reform
Why is healthcare reform so opposed?? It is obvious that the US needs it.
I think many mistakenly link this reform to the evil notion of socialism as seen in the past with authoritarian governments and no democracy, as opposed to modern democratic Socialism. But the idea about taking care of everyone- the poor and those who cannot sustain themselves is not an evil idea. It is the essence of Christianity. Yet so many of us stand up and firmly oppose it- without any idea of what it is saying.
Adding a public option for our health care system in the US does not= socialism- as it allows those who cannot afford health coverage an affordable option. If you already have health care you like- than so be it. Obama is not making you change your doctor or your plan. He is simply trying to provide for the many who do not have health care. If someone would like health care coverage without getting into debt/bankruptcy- I think they have the right to it.
If you are confused please visit this website-I like it because the facts are straight.
http://www.whitehouse.gov/
To me it is not right that "The United States spent approximately $2.2 trillion on health care in 2007, or $7,421 per person – nearly twice the average of other developed nations."
And out of all of the developed nations- we have the highest infant mortality rate.
Spending more $money$ is not equaling better coverage?! Something is wrong.
If even one person is being denied treatments that could save their life because they cannot afford them financially- I think that is not right.
I do not agree with self interested, profit driven corporations running our nations healthcare and deciding who receives coverage or not. It is simply not human to deny someone the right to be treated for anything or in extreme cases the right to save their life. This new plan will put caps on out of pocket spending for those already with health insurance, it will also not allow insurance companies to deny you coverage for those with pre-existing conditions.
Call it socialism- but I am for Obama's Healthcare Reform Plans. May the future of America be better for them.
I think many mistakenly link this reform to the evil notion of socialism as seen in the past with authoritarian governments and no democracy, as opposed to modern democratic Socialism. But the idea about taking care of everyone- the poor and those who cannot sustain themselves is not an evil idea. It is the essence of Christianity. Yet so many of us stand up and firmly oppose it- without any idea of what it is saying.
Adding a public option for our health care system in the US does not= socialism- as it allows those who cannot afford health coverage an affordable option. If you already have health care you like- than so be it. Obama is not making you change your doctor or your plan. He is simply trying to provide for the many who do not have health care. If someone would like health care coverage without getting into debt/bankruptcy- I think they have the right to it.
If you are confused please visit this website-I like it because the facts are straight.
http://www.whitehouse.gov/
To me it is not right that "The United States spent approximately $2.2 trillion on health care in 2007, or $7,421 per person – nearly twice the average of other developed nations."
And out of all of the developed nations- we have the highest infant mortality rate.
Spending more $money$ is not equaling better coverage?! Something is wrong.
If even one person is being denied treatments that could save their life because they cannot afford them financially- I think that is not right.
I do not agree with self interested, profit driven corporations running our nations healthcare and deciding who receives coverage or not. It is simply not human to deny someone the right to be treated for anything or in extreme cases the right to save their life. This new plan will put caps on out of pocket spending for those already with health insurance, it will also not allow insurance companies to deny you coverage for those with pre-existing conditions.
Call it socialism- but I am for Obama's Healthcare Reform Plans. May the future of America be better for them.
Friday, January 8, 2010
Proud to be a BYU Student
BYU or Brigham Young University is an excellent university located in Provo, Utah that is privately owned by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. One quirky fact is that it is known by the Princeton College Review as the #1 most sober school in America- and accordingly so- every student who attends the university signs on to no drinking, smoking, coffee, tea, pre marital sex, and modest dress, etc. The University holds the same standards as the church. Sound a little strict? It can be- but mostly it is a beautiful thing.
Some other top 20 rankings include: best college library, No. 6; best quality of life, No. 16; most politically conservative student body, No. 8; and most religious students, No. 1. I personally appreciate our number one ranking of most religious students. I think it is one thing to profess your faith and another to live it. While pride is not a virtue obviously- I must say I am proud that students at my school choose to believe, study, and actually live their faith. While I'm sure not everyone is perfect and the Honor Code isn't always kept by everyone- their is a general spirit and love for life and learning that is exuberated on this campus because of the many faithful and loving students, professors, and faculty.
Jeffrey R Holland, former school president of the University, and now one of the apostles for the church, gave a wonderful address to the students of the school in Sept 1988 (that is when I was born! titled "A School in Zion." I believe the message is just as applicable now to students at BYU and I challenge you to read it. I did it for an assignment in my Political Philosophy class and thought it was great.
Some other top 20 rankings include: best college library, No. 6; best quality of life, No. 16; most politically conservative student body, No. 8; and most religious students, No. 1. I personally appreciate our number one ranking of most religious students. I think it is one thing to profess your faith and another to live it. While pride is not a virtue obviously- I must say I am proud that students at my school choose to believe, study, and actually live their faith. While I'm sure not everyone is perfect and the Honor Code isn't always kept by everyone- their is a general spirit and love for life and learning that is exuberated on this campus because of the many faithful and loving students, professors, and faculty.
Jeffrey R Holland, former school president of the University, and now one of the apostles for the church, gave a wonderful address to the students of the school in Sept 1988 (that is when I was born! titled "A School in Zion." I believe the message is just as applicable now to students at BYU and I challenge you to read it. I did it for an assignment in my Political Philosophy class and thought it was great.
Sunday, January 3, 2010
Health and Healthcare in the US
MRSA leads to more deaths in the US than AIDS. But what is it? I was very intruiged to read this article titled, "Solution to killer superbug found in Norway" because my boyfriend who is from Norway is always talking about how great their healthcare system is. This is a little living proof I suppose.
Norwegians generally do not take a lot of prescription drugs, nor do they run to drugs as a solution to every minor ache or pain they might have.
The "superbug" or MRSA is "Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus" a baterica that leads to several infections that are resistant to Antibiotics.
Why are these infections resistant you ask?
Well our bodies become immuned to the many antibiotics we take for colds or coughs. And notably so, "The World Health Organization says antibiotic resistance is one of the leading public health threats on the planet. A six-month investigation by The Associated Press found overuse and misuse of medicines has led to mutations in once curable diseases like tuberculosis and malaria, making them harder and in some cases impossible to treat."
Norway's solution is simple. Reduce Antibiotic prescriptions and intake. And several test cities in the US such as Billings Montana have seen MRSA cases reduced by 89 percent. That is wonderful!
Obviously there are some flaws in our system- and something I won't discuss fully but on an ending note- Why does the US have the second highest Infant Mortality Rate in the Developed World?
In an article on CNN quote, "Tinker said some nations ranked high in part because they offer free health services for pregnant women and babies, while the United States suffers from disparities in access to health care." A lot of our infant deaths occur in minority groups, premature babies, and people who do not have access to health care.
As a nation I am pleased that we are on the brink of major Healthcare reform- not because I personally need it- but because I know it can be the means of helping millions in the US get health coverage and save lives.
Norwegians generally do not take a lot of prescription drugs, nor do they run to drugs as a solution to every minor ache or pain they might have.
The "superbug" or MRSA is "Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus" a baterica that leads to several infections that are resistant to Antibiotics.
Why are these infections resistant you ask?
Well our bodies become immuned to the many antibiotics we take for colds or coughs. And notably so, "The World Health Organization says antibiotic resistance is one of the leading public health threats on the planet. A six-month investigation by The Associated Press found overuse and misuse of medicines has led to mutations in once curable diseases like tuberculosis and malaria, making them harder and in some cases impossible to treat."
Norway's solution is simple. Reduce Antibiotic prescriptions and intake. And several test cities in the US such as Billings Montana have seen MRSA cases reduced by 89 percent. That is wonderful!
Obviously there are some flaws in our system- and something I won't discuss fully but on an ending note- Why does the US have the second highest Infant Mortality Rate in the Developed World?
In an article on CNN quote, "Tinker said some nations ranked high in part because they offer free health services for pregnant women and babies, while the United States suffers from disparities in access to health care." A lot of our infant deaths occur in minority groups, premature babies, and people who do not have access to health care.
As a nation I am pleased that we are on the brink of major Healthcare reform- not because I personally need it- but because I know it can be the means of helping millions in the US get health coverage and save lives.
Wednesday, December 30, 2009
Ring in the New Year! - 2010
I'm a few days early but my goals for 2010 have been made.
Some thoughts I had that might be helpful:
Have one main focus for your goals in 2010-
Like healthy living or professional or academic success-
Both of these are very broad goals so it is easy to create several smaller specific goals to correlate- ie. creating meal plans, working out everyday for 30 mins, refraining from certain treats, etc.
The more specific you get the easier it is to accomplish you goals! And with one broad idea of your goals for 2010 you can easily think of a list of specific "easier" goals to accomplish or recommit to to achieve to your "big-ideal-broad" one.
What is your main goal or goals for the new year?
Have them by your side and read them everyday and you are bound to accomplish them.
I did this in 2006 and was amazed at the end of the year that even the smallest goal was accomplished- and there wasn't one that had not seen success to it.
Set your goals and work to accomplish them! That is the pathway to success. =)
Some thoughts I had that might be helpful:
Have one main focus for your goals in 2010-
Like healthy living or professional or academic success-
Both of these are very broad goals so it is easy to create several smaller specific goals to correlate- ie. creating meal plans, working out everyday for 30 mins, refraining from certain treats, etc.
The more specific you get the easier it is to accomplish you goals! And with one broad idea of your goals for 2010 you can easily think of a list of specific "easier" goals to accomplish or recommit to to achieve to your "big-ideal-broad" one.
What is your main goal or goals for the new year?
Have them by your side and read them everyday and you are bound to accomplish them.
I did this in 2006 and was amazed at the end of the year that even the smallest goal was accomplished- and there wasn't one that had not seen success to it.
Set your goals and work to accomplish them! That is the pathway to success. =)
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