Comments Spearhead has made

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, 2 months ago 3 Responses

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, 2 months ago 32 Responses

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, 2 months ago 12 Responses