We cling to one another in the mistaken belief that expressing our collective disappointment will give us a voice to which “they” will listen…as if our little pods of rage and fear will breed in us strength and power. We seem to think name-calling and condemnation will work for us, the way it worked for them. But, unlike us, they were not trying to change minds. They simply enjoyed belittling us and our world-views. They responded to our derogatory statements about their perspectives as if ours were words of ridicule. And they were right, of course. We thought we could shame them into seeing things our way. But, instead, our condescension provided them with additional motives and ammunition. We mocked them for worrying about the price of food and gas. And we called them racists and monsters for fearing the influx of undocumented immigrants. We laughed at their irrational concerns about the economy—although they might have to work two jobs (or more), our IRAs were doing just fine. Instead of trying to educate them about the critical value of immigration—instead of gently coaxing them to view the issue with understanding and compassion—we did all we could to embarrass them for their stupidity and their heartless animosity. Rather than trying to understand the source of their economic worries, we insulted them for their ignorance. Next time—if there is a next time—we might try a little understanding and compassion for them and their concerns. Not by adopting their positions, but by rationally considering their perspectives and offering appealing and creative ways to address their fears. Not by accepting their political leaders, but by modeling civility.
+++
Most Americans—and, probably, most others—do not give much thought to economic theory; and even less to the practical aspects of different economic systems. We simply accept (or give no thought to) claims, for example, that capitalism relies primarily on market forces rather than governmental mandate. If we examine economic transactions closely, though, we see that market forces (e.g., supply and demand) are either buttressed or weakened through governmental intervention/dictate. Economic theories and economic practices are far more complex than I once thought; perhaps that is why so few of us invest much mental energy trying to understand them. Viewing economics through my unsophisticated lenses, it seems that the concepts of supply and demand—alone—should offer enough of a foundational core to allow me to understand economic theory. But this morning, as I read a few snippets about economics, I came to realize just how complicated the subject can be. For example, I learned just today that autarky is an economic system of self-sufficiency and limited trade. And I read that mercantilism and capitalism are related, but some of their individual attributes differ significantly. Finally, I concluded that economic theory interests me…to a point. Beyond that point, my mind drifts into thoughts of meteors and butterflies and the ingredients in food-coloring, among other riveting matters of interest. Just one more example of my wide but shallow interests. I do not have the wherewithal to delve deeply into most subjects. My superficial knowledge of many subjects can mislead some people into thinking I may know more than I do. Other people can see right through the veneer of understanding to the core of ignorance below.
+++
Today is Veterans’ Day. That fact generates an array of thoughts; some involving appreciation, some centered on regret. Nothing is simple, really. Nothing is black and white. Black can be considered very dark white; white can be considered very light black. Grey is the most revealing color of all.
