The
Rational Argumentator
Issue CCII
August 9, 2009
Cash for Clunkers:
Robert P. Murphy
August 9, 2009
Just when you thought the wizards in Washington couldn’t distort the economy any more, along comes the “cash-for-clunkers” program. Spending billions of tax dollars to bribe people to buy new cars is always a silly idea, but it’s especially ludicrous with unemployment near 10% and the federal budget deficit near $2 trillion. What’s especially ironic, writes Dr. Robert Murphy, is that the allegedly “green” program will barely put a dent in carbon dioxide emissions. Cash-for-clunkers is a loser even on its own terms.
Does the Fed Need an Exit Strategy?:
Robert P. Murphy
August 9, 2009
In a recent article, Paul McCulley, managing director of PIMCO, was very enthusiastic about Bernanke's handling of the financial crisis, and argued that the Fed had the tools necessary to avert large price inflation. Unfortunately, McCulley's arguments have gaping holes; he has hardly dispelled Dr. Robert Murphy's prediction of massive stagflation. Because McCulley's piece crystallizes what many analysts have been saying, Dr. Murphy believes it will be instructive to pick apart his main points.
Brad DeLong's Erroneous Defense of Greenspan:
Robert P. Murphy
August 9, 2009
In this article Dr. Robert Murphy goes through Brad DeLong's recent defense of Greenspan's policies. DeLong's argument is of particular interest to Austrian economists, because he relies on Wicksell's "natural rate" of interest, a concept that Ludwig von Mises adopted for his own explanation of the business cycle. Dr. Murphy finds DeLong's defense somewhat perplexing. Even on the Wicksellian criteria that DeLong sets up, Greenspan failed and should be held at least partially accountable for the housing boom.
Healthcare Plan Based on Economic Fantasy:
Ron Paul
August 9, 2009
As the healthcare debate rages on, there is one reality that even the proponents of this hostile takeover of healthcare by government cannot ignore – and that is money. Rep. Ron Paul writes that the government simply does not have the money for a new, expansive, public healthcare plan.
History
The American Revolution Revisited:
Timothy Baldwin
August 9, 2009
Timothy Baldwin believes that there are 3 basic options for "Who is Sovereign in the United States": (1) the Federal government, (2) the State governments or (3) We the People. He feels confident in stating that most contemporary Americans believe that the answer to this critical question is the Federal government--especially as it concerns any practical effect on the power of and over government. Mr. Baldwin, however, begs to differ and presents his case, with support from the American Founders.
The Stand for Sovereignty:
Timothy Baldwin
August 9, 2009
Politics
Why I Do Not Adhere to Anarcho-Capitalism:
G. Stolyarov II
August 9, 2009
Mr. Stolyarov gives six objections to anarcho-capitalism and explains why he, as a libertarian, believes that government is necessary and that liberty is compatible with some government functions.
I Accuse!:
Alan Caruba
August 9, 2009
In 1898, an article by the great French novelist, Emile Zola was published in L’Aurore. It was addressed to the President of France. Zola accused the military of having wrongly convicted Capt. Alfred Dreyfus, a Jewish artillery officer, of treason, incarcerating him for years on
Questions to Ask at Town Hall Meetings:
Paul Driessen
August 9, 2009
Americans are justifiably wary about Congress rushing to overhaul our healthcare system – 17% of our economy – with little debate, analysis, or bipartisan input. They worry that the legislation could affect their costs, free choice, doctor-patient relationships and access to quality care.
The Immorality of Taxpayer-Funded Abortion:
Ron Paul
August 9, 2009
Healthcare continues to dominate the agenda on Capitol Hill as House leadership and the administration try to ram through their big government healthcare plan. Fortunately, they have been unsuccessful so far, as there are many horrifying provisions tucked into this massive piece of legislation. One major issue is the public funding of elective abortions. The administration has already removed many longstanding restrictions on abortion, and is unwilling to provide straight answers to questions regarding the public funding of abortion in their plan. This is deeply troubling for Rep. Ron Paul and for those of us who do not want taxpayer dollars funding abortions.
"For the end of civil society [is] to avoid and remedy those inconveniences of the state of nature which necessarily follow from every man's being a judge in his own case, by setting up a known authority to which everyone of that society may appeal upon any injury received, or controversy that may arise..."
~ John Locke