Rich, fwiw, I'm wondering about this -- ever notice that the standard of living throughout the world is actually increasing, and that even among those who complain the most, they are usually complaining, not about starving, but about not having enough money. Basically, about not having a Western lifestyle.
I'm sure you can correct me on this. That's purely an anecdotal opinion, supported by some random media interviews.
It seems, tho', these are folks who can survive just fine in their 3rd-world society, but have their highly-paid sponsors to make claims for American funds to create an American lifestyle. If true, why don't we advocate an expanded volunteer Peace Corps to spread the technology and systems engineering required to move into the 21st century, for those countries whose leadership is incompetent or corrupt.
That way we aren't increasing the corruption of their leadership with untraceable cash, and more directly benefiting individuals.
As far as jobs, if we have full employment here, we should allow worldwide economic engagement, without tariffs where possible, because that increases profits, as long as its not at the expense of US.
In 2000, I had a contract w. a Silicon Vly company with 40% Indian programmers, all of whom were let go when the bubble burst... I kind of felt we were letting these guys in too easily, but, hey, demand was great.
After the downturn, I felt differently about it.
Conclusion: there needs to be a balance, in favor of US citizens first, then the rest.
IMO |
