Spearhead’s Recent Comments

• Click here to view comment in original post

  Economists can make the Earth better

  Much to the surprise of most "environmentalists," a true study of economics shows that it is in our economic (hence - self) interest to protect, preserve, and sustainably use our natural resources and environment.  The main reason that environmental degradation takes place is due to two reasons: First, the government ALLOWS pollution levels with laws such as the Clean Air and Clean Water Acts, instead of using civil courts to prevent the pollution in the first place. Second, the true cost of goods and services aren't always the market price.  The second point can be demonstrated in many cases.  

  For example, some great research done at the U of Maryland by Robert Costanza concluded that the Earth's atmosphere is worth approximately $33 trillion.  If the prices of gasoline, carbon energy, CFC's, etc. were priced accurately, the damage they inflict on the atmosphere would be accounted for in their market price, making them less attractive than other alternatives.  However, the current market price, let's say of gasoline, does not reflect the true "cost" of the good.

  There has been some amazing groundwork layed in natural resource and environmental economics lately, and it is certainly in any greens interest to learn how simple economics can make our world a much better place.   I would recommend reading some literature by authors like Costanza, Terry Anderson, and PJ Hill for a start.  The later two will focus on free-markets, but may open your eyes.On Economists prefer Obama on energy and environment policy posted 1 year, 1 month ago 3 Responses

• Click here to view comment in original post

  Nice rounding skills

  It's nice to see some fact checking... keep it up!  Unfortunately, I'd be surprised if more than .5% of the voting population picks up on this, but that's besides the point.

  I guess Republican's don't know how to round either.  Imagine if the IPCC rounded any of their projections up 40%.  I imagine the Republican's would be all over that.

  Ugh, for someone who sits on the right end of the spectrum, the GOP really digusts me.On McCain/Palin energy lie about Alaska the latest to come in for media scrutiny posted 1 year, 1 month ago 7 Responses

• Click here to view comment in original post

  Hi Saluki

  I do agree with some of your points, but for the sake of devil's advocate...

  -Saying Palin's approval rating means she concentrates more on her job is just incorrect.  Here in NY, Hillary Clinton's approval rating from the state was once in the mid 70's.  She hasn't done a single thing for this state, but people liked her (I don't know why) so her approval soared.

  -Congress' approval rating has been holding steady at 'just awful' for 5 years now.

  -The economic downturn can almost be solely credited to the world-wide demand for petroleum, and the lack of oversight regarding speculative trading.  To say anyone one country (or political party) caused this, well, is just not right.

  Last, Obama's stated plan would reduce taxes for the lowest 98% of wage earners, increasing after tax income by nearly 5%.  McCain's proposal would increase after tax income by roughly 2%.

  With that said, I don't care much for either candidate, just clearing up the facts :)On She knows 'more about energy than probably anyone else in the United States of America' posted 1 year, 1 month ago 32 Responses

• Click here to view comment in original post

  Reds twisting words as usual

  It's amazing how well the Republican's can lie and twist words, and even more amazing that so many people believe them.  This interview reminds me of the "Clear Skies Act" that increased pollution levels, and the "Patriot Act" that further restricted our civil liberties.

  Now they do the same with Sarah Palin, perhaps the most dangerous person in this election.  Since I live in Western NY, I guess I'm an expert in Canadian policy, hydro-electric energy, and photo-optics.  Maybe I can get a position in the cabinet?On She knows 'more about energy than probably anyone else in the United States of America' posted 1 year, 1 month ago 32 Responses

• Click here to view comment in original post

  Blackbear

  Good post - I couldn't agree more.  

  I'm not sure why people in this country blindly refute the "alternative energy" options and cling to fossil fuels.  America has always blossomed as a result of our "big dreams" and innovative atmosphere, creating jobs, wealth, and generally making the world a better place for everyone.

  Why, when Americans were able to create democracy, establish much of modern medicine, be the first to flight, establish oil as a source of energy, nuclear technology, and use a computer/internet based infrastructure, are so many reluctant to migrate from carbon-based energy to a new energy platform?  

  As much as I don't want to believe it, I think it's the special-interests that have a hand in everything Capitol.On It's time to break the American addiction to oil posted 1 year, 1 month ago 12 Responses