The Midnight Hour

Today Brian at Flashpoint alerted me to a short but sweet article in the New York Times addressing the following issue: What if politicians pandered to economists? I think it’s a fascinating question, and with the economy ursurping Iraq as the #1 issue to American voters, a relevant question indeed. If you want to stimulate the economy, wouldn’t it be smart to ask some experts (and then actually follow their advice)? The article points out areas where both presedential candidates have fallen short of gaining the not-very-coveted “economist vote.” Unfortunately, mainstream voters are often opposed to the issues and advice in the article such as liberalizing drug policies, leaving the oil market alone, and supporting free trade.

To pick on one pet peeve of mine, just think how quickly the country would go to hell in a handbasket if we legalized marijuana. What if people were allowed to freely ingest highly addictive chemicals? Wait, I’m sorry…that’s nicotine. But how can we take the chance that people will drive while highly impaired with chemicals? You’re right…we already do that with alcohol. Now I’ve confused myself. How is THC in marijuana different than nicotine and alcohol? Why has our nanny government seen fit to tell people that they cannot sit in their own homes and ingest a chemical of their own choosing? If you have the answers I’m genuinely willing to listen. If all you have is emotional knee-jerk reactions then I’m not.