TJP

During the presidential campaign, Mr. Obama railed against the Bush administration build up to what has been labeled a war of choice, the preemptive attack on Iraq. It appears, however, that the Obama administration is mirroring the Bush build up for a preemptive attack on Iran. The arguments used against Iran are similar to those used by the Bush administration against Iraq.

According to an article published in the Jerusalem Post, the United Kingdom is the first Western nation with voting rights on the UN Human Rights Council to signal that it would not endorse the Goldstone Report. Such obstruction of the report is interesting, particularly to black and brown countries whose leaders are quickly hauled off to the World Court by Western nations at the first accusation of human rights violations.

The Supreme Court debate over the torture and merchandizing cruelty of animals is interesting. On the surface, it appears to place preeminence of animal torture and cruelty over human torture and cruelty. However, if the court upholds the 1999 law it will open the door for legal challenges to torture and merchandizing of human cruelty.

The average citizen is unaware of the role of money in determining income and employment. The Federal Reserve (Fed), a government agency, uses monetary policy to manipulate the quantity of money, interest rates, and income. Thus, it is vital for Americans to know how monetary policy works, since it has stifled economic growth and employment.

The Dimona Research Reactor has not been subjected to international inspection. This on the surface appears to be a double standard as compared to the West's position on Iran.

It was arrogance and childish for Western diplomats to walk out on President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad. Furthermore, it signaled that they are not willing to listen to adversarial points of view. So, why should adversaries listen to them?

It is insane to think that Iran wants to attack Europe or anyone else, regardless of Ahmadinejad’s rhetoric. Iran, unlike other nations, does not have a history of an attacking nation. Who has Iran attacked in the past ten years?

Although President Carter and others have accurately assessed the racial motives of a fringe group in the Republican Party, the White House cannot respond in kind. President Obama is the leader of all Americans and the free world. The White House cannot give Republicans attempting to balkanize the United States currency.

Aggregate demand (A) is the total demand for goods and services for a particular time period and it is equal to the level of output (income). The level of equilibrium output is where income equals output. Aggregate demand is the summation of personal consumption (C), business investment (I), government spending (G), and net exports (NX). Net exports or the balance of trade is the difference between exports and imports and personal consumption depends on income.

The perceived economic climate affects election results. When unemployment is rising, incumbent presidents tend not to be reelected. Thus, the application of tight or loose monetary policy could determine the outcome of elections.

From the beginning, we were engaged with blessings to be fruitful, as well as to multiply, filling and subduing the earth while exercising our dominion “over every living thing that moves on the earth.” Does this general directive apply to a select few, or to every living human on the planet? In the image of God, we are created, “…male and female He created them” (Genesis 1:26-27). 

Aggregate demand is the total demand for goods and services produced in the economy. In order to maintain a growing economy or reduce unemployment, aggregate demand must increase. Policy makers can affect the aggregate demand through monetary and fiscal policies. The Federal Reserve (the Fed) controls monetary policy and the executive branch usually initiate fiscal policy, but it is under the control of Congress.

Inflation targeting is a monetary-policy strategy. It was introduced in New Zealand in1990 and over 20 industrialized and non-industrialized countries use it. Its principal feature is an announced numerical inflation target, a monetary policy that focuses on an inflation forecast (called ‘inflation-forecast targeting) and public transparency and accountability.

If you killed dogs, you’re put away like Michael Vick. If you killed patients, as apparently some physicians did in New Orleans during Katrina, you’re given a pass. Dr. Edwin Cook, who worked at Memorial Medical Center in New Orleans, told ProPublica “I gave her medicine so I could get rid of her faster, get the nurses off the floor.” He further stated, “There's no question I hastened her demise.”

The role of the Federal Reserve (Fed) in the nation’s economic system is to provide a safer, more flexible, and more stable monetary and financial system. According to its mission, its duties fall into four general areas:

The Democrats won the elections, but the Republicans, supported by blue dogs Democrats, appear to be setting the agenda on health care. Health care reform without a public government supported option and end of life counseling is more of the same. The government-supported option, as well as the existing private options, must be included in any health care reform.

Human Hypocrisy: Targeting Michael Vick

By Byron A. Ellis – August 17, 2009

The news media and some in the public claim that Michael Vick should not be allowed in the NFL because he was a participant in dog fighting and killings.

The Inability to Succinctly Define Health Care Initiative Creates Fear 

Byron A. Ellis – August 13, 2009

Fear is a powerful weapon and when invoked, it often achieves its intended objective. People tend to fair what they do not understand. For instance, Americans did not understand Saddam’s Iraq and were gloated into believing that Saddam had weapons of mass destruction and was complicit in the September 11 attack. 

What if you and friends could skim $5.8 billion dollars from an underperforming financial institution bailed out by taxpayers and only pay $33 million dollars as penalty. That is, the schemers only had to return .56 percent of the total loot

The arrest of Skip Gates confirms what many American citizens already know, if a police wants to make an arrest, he can fabricate a story.

The United States government allowed financial institutions to use taxpayers’ money to stave of bankruptcy. Now, unscrupulous bankers are rewarding themselves with million dollar bonuses and raising credit cards fees and interest rates ahead of federal legislation at taxpayers’ expense.

The Republican argument against Judge Sotomayor is disingenuous and will not serve them well. Apparently, in their worldview judges are unbiased and culture and ethics do not influence deliberations.

It is interesting to observe the mainstreaming of unnatural behaviors, which should make us recall Jesus’ prophetic words (Luke 17:28-30). Jesus tells us that in the day the Son of Man is revealed it would be like the days of Lot. In the days of Lot unnatural behaviors were also in the mainstream of Sodom and Gomorra.

The rulers of Iran had three choices acquiesce to a new election, suppress the demonstrator with violence, or negotiate an amicable solution to the crisis. The two former choices were opposite extremes of the spectrum; the latter choice was the most optimal. It would have allowed the rulers to not reveal their ruthlessness.

The effectiveness of the economy and financial institutions depend on the ability of the Federal Reserve to use monetary and credit policies in pursuit of maximum employment, stable prices, and moderate long-term interest rates, as well as supervising and regulating banking institutions to ensure the safety and soundness of the nation's banking and financial system and to protect the credit rights of consumers.

It is interesting to observe how the United States government uses assistance funds to mold behaviors in Central America. According to La Nacion, the US, this week, stopped poverty funding of $62 million dollars to Nicaragua. The funds were allocated to assist in social projects and to combat poverty. In contrast, the US treatment of military funds to allies in the Middle East would never be cut due to disagreements. It is, however, this unequal treatment between social and military funding that creates uneasiness and mistrust of US foreign policies.

If automaker Chrysler expects to emerge with a potential customer base from bankruptcy it must address product liability lawsuits. Most consumers would not patronize an automaker that refuses to address consumer injuries that resulted from its defective products.

According to The Jerusalem Post, Ministers and MKs on the right are outraged by President Obama’s comparison of the Palestinian suffering with suffering endured by Jews. This type of reaction by some Jews is a fundamental obstacle to peace in the Middle East; it is a belief that Jews have suffered the most in the entire world and because of this belief they are entitled to oppress other with impunity.

Latinos or Hispanicos an Amalgam of Cultures

Byron A. Ellis – May 29, 2009

Many Americans failed to understand the term Latinos or Hispanicos. The term Latinos or Hispanicos identifies individual from Spanish speaking Latin American countries. These individuals are natives to the continent, mestizos, Africans, Asians, Anglos, Musulmanes, and others cultures.

Cheney’s Motivation: Pure Self-Interest

By Byron A. Ellis – May 22, 2009

Since the time of Adam, language has been used as a deceptive and polarizing tool. According to the Bible, Satan used it to deceived Adam and Eve and as a wedge between them and God. The serpent, which represents Satan, told Eve that if she ate from the tree of knowledge she would be like God.

Management is about Effectiveness: Not Race, Gender, or Ethnicity

By Byron A. Ellis – May 23, 2009

It is interesting, and somewhat amusing, to read the comments by some Americans regarding the appointment of General Charles Bolden to head NASA. General Bolden is a retired Marine, an astronaut with four space flights, two of which he commanded. And, after the Challenger accident, he was named chief of the safety division at the Johnson Space Center and was responsible for overseeing the safety of return flights.

Let the Market determine the Optimal Number of U.S. Car Dealership

By Byron A. Ellis – May 20, 2009

Reducing Chrysler and General Motors' car dealerships will not help the car makers or American car buyers. In fact, closing dealership will reduce competition and increase offer prices for Chrysler and General Motors vehicles.

Did the Fed Fail to Properly Manage the Money Supply?

By Byron A. Ellis – May 18, 2009

The public does not have a good understanding of how money is created, or its effect on the economy. Money is a commodity of exchange used to purchase goods and services. The Federal Reserve creates money by printing it and banks thorough lending. Bank money creation is extinguished when loans are paid off.

Q & A Session  - Pamela Sanders Ellis, O.D., Ph.D., Author 

New Book Release:  The Path of Life Guidebook – Spring 2009

The Path of Life Guidebook is a general interest book in that anyone who would like to know a direction, that when taken, will result in a healthy, successful, and satisfying life, will consider this an important “must read” on their list.

Expedient Transparency: Withholding of the Photos

By Byron A. Ellis – May 15, 2009

The proclamation of government transparency is hollow, if governments are only transparent when it is expedient. Releasing photos depicting abhorrent treatment of the detainees in U.S. custody would demonstrate transparency and signal a shift from the bushism.

It is time for President Obama to let the crude oil industry know that a return to speculative crude oil prices is not in the nation’s best interest. The price of gasoline has been steadily inching upwards in the absence of supply pressures.

Christ: Tortured and Crucified

Byron A. Ellis – May 01, 2009

The findings of the Pew Research Center survey indicated that more than half of people who attend services at least once a week, 54%, believe that the use of torture against suspected terrorists is "often" or "sometimes" justified. The findings are not surprising. Rather, it reveals the misunderstanding of many churchgoers; they failed to understand the teachings of Christ, who was also tortured and crucified.

Nuclear Iran is not Israel’s Problem, Nuclear Al Qaeda is

Byron A. Ellis – April 24, 2009

Israel’s focus on Iran’s nuclear pursuit is misplaced; they should be focusing on the rise of the Taliban in nuclear Pakistan. Nuclear Taliban/Al Qaeda is a far more ominous threat than nuclear Iran could ever be.

Money Creation

Byron A. Ellis – April 06, 2009

Money is created in two ways from borrowing and spending and from printing by a central bank. In the past decade, the private sector has created most money through borrowing and spending. As a result some have astutely argued {Benson (2004), Money created “Out of thin air”} that private sector new borrowing will not be able to create enough new money to service the already massive level of old debt. Nonetheless, the banking system as a whole can expand its loans and investments as new reserve of cash is created.

Oil Industry: Catalyst to the Economic Crisis

Byron A. Ellis – March 25, 2009

It has been erroneously argued that sub prime mortgages caused the current economic crisis. Failure of sub prime mortgages was only the first symptom and a bellwether that should have alerted policy makers of an impending income crisis.

A credit default swap (CDS) is, basically, an unregulated financial insurance whereby the buyer makes periodic payments to the seller in exchange for the right to a payoff if there is a default or credit event in respect of a third party or reference entity. Its original purpose was to transfer credit exposure from holders of a fixed income security to the financial firm that sold the CDS. However, over time it morphed into a betting game.

Economics is often viewed as an abstraction and hence not fully understood or well applied. It is viewed as an abstraction because practitioners have made it more complex than it should be, rather than reducing and simplifying it.

The United States is plagued with bureaucratic institutions that are inflexible and not prone to change. A bureaucracy is an institution or organization characterized by fixed rules and a hierarchy of authority.

Treasury’s Moral Hazard

By Byron A. Ellis-October 26, 2008

Assistant Treasury Secretary Neel Kashkari is overseeing the $700 billion bailout of Wall Street that Congress passed on Oct. 3. Kashkari said, during the Senate hearing on October 23, 2008, that the administration was working to get federal purchases of bank stock started quickly and to mop up troubled mortgage-related assets. However, from his testimony, diligence for helping struggling homeowners avoid foreclosure was not evident.

Lower Energy Prices: An Instantaneous Stimulus

By Byron A. Ellis-November 12, 2008

Some pundits and politicians believe that additional fiscal stimulus is needed. However, if history is a guide, additional fiscal stimulus might not be the appropriate policy, particularly given the existing stimulus resulting from lower energy prices. Today, the price of gasoline is below $2 dollars in many regions, as opposed to its peak above $4 dollars.

Looking back at General Motors during their 1991 crisis

Byron A. Ellis-1991

GM's problem, and that of the American automobile industry, is lack of customers. Potential customers perceive workmanship and aesthetics of American made cars as inferior, and are unwilling to purchase at the current high prices.

Community Organizers

By Byron A. Ellis-November 03, 2008

It is sad to hear politicians professing to be Christians and demeaning social work, as well as the redistribution of God’s wealth, when the Gospels are a social manifestation of Christ’s love for humanity and the sharing of God’s bounty.

Policy makers can stimulate the economy through fiscal or monetary policies. Fiscal policy is controlled by Congress and is usually initiated by the President; the instruments of fiscal policy are tax rates and government spending. The Fed controls monetary policy; the instruments of monetary policy are changes in the stock of money, changes in the discount rate and control over the banking system.

Socializing Inefficiency: Wall Street Bailout

By Byron A. Ellis - October 18, 2008

Efficient financial markets are essential for capital formation and economic growth; they channel savings from savers to borrowers satisfying the highest level of want. The current financial crisis is indicative of many inefficient financial actors.

One thing that we can all agree upon is that we want our children to be safe, happy, and have a future.  Honestly, we want this for ourselves also.  With the sense and “reality” of management, government, and socioeconomic crisis all around us, how can we achieve this obvious objective? 

Therefore, the policy should have been to renegotiate housing foreclosures with financial institutions and provide time-limited mortgage vouchers to homeowners in foreclosures and with mortgage difficulties.

If taxpayers are bailing out banks, the outrageous fees charged by banks for overdrafts should cease. For instance, if a bank’s customer incurs a one-dollar overdraft the bank charges a fee of $35.00 for each occurrence.

The Administration, the Federal Reserve, and the Treasury have yet to present conclusive evidence of an impending economic collapse. And, their argument that bailing out Wall Street would benefit Main Street has not been deemed credible by American taxpayers.

Hasn’t the fear mongering script been played already, it was called the urgency of invading Iraq based on false assumption.

McCain is Afraid to Debate

By Byron A. Ellis-September 25, 2008

Another one of McCain’s confused tactic interjects politics in the bailout debate; this is the country first candidate. And, now sensing that he will perform poorly in the upcoming debate he wants to cut and run.

Bailing out Wall Street Fat Cats will not solve the Credit Crunch

By Byron A. Ellis-September 24, 2008

 

Last week, the Treasury Department offered government insurance to money market funds and the Security and Exchange Commission banned short-selling of financial stocks. Apparently neither agency put a lot of thought in their actions. As a result, they had to rapidly backtrack.

 

Homeowners at Risk must be Included in the Bailout

By Byron A. Ellis-September 22, 2008

Democrats should not support the Republican bailout if it does not include provisions to bailout homeowners plagued by foreclosures and a cap on executive pay of failing financial institutions. However, the Republicans do not believe in helping middle class or penalizing executives for poor performance. 

Risk management is the ability to foresee and understand possible outcomes associated with a given action or actions. The ability to manage risk is not the same as experience. Experience is exposure, often over time, to actions or activities. It is quite common, however, to confuse risk management with experience.

Republican Advocated for Unregulated Markets By Byron A. Ellis-September 17, 2008

Republicans often advocate for unregulated free markets; they argue that regulation, even safety and environmental regulation, is costly. For instance, in December of 2000, Senator Phil Gramm tacked on a 262-page amendment, known as the Commodity Futures Modernization Act, to the 11,000-page government re-authorization bill.

The Marketing of Politics...A Winning Strategy for the OBAMA Campaign
By  P. J. McNeil-September 10, 2008

I am disappointed at the Obama campaign's lack of focus since the DNC. I feel that the reason the Republican Party can insult our intelligence and lie to our face and get away with it is because the Democratic Party lacks an effective and focused marketing plan. To some degree.... they overestimate the average American's willingness to invest time and effort into discovering the truth about the candidates for themselves.

McCain had 26 Years to Change Washington

By Byron A. Ellis-September 08, 2008

McCain is asking voters to give the Republicans another four years to steer the country. However, in order to do so, he has to run against his party dismal record. Moreover, he has to acknowledge that the Republican Party is guilty of mismanaging the economy and that they have valued power over principle. But, where was this maverick when his party was destroying the U.S. economy?

Will Racial and Fear Mongering Trump Self-interest?

By Byron A. Ellis-September  06, 2008

The Republicans, as echoed by Dick Armey, have always taken the position that the American electorate is subject to racial and fear mongering manipulations. And, in the past two elections Republicans succeeded by using both tactics. Will the American electorate demonstrate to the world that racial and fear mongering biases are more powerful than their own self-interest?

Family Values: Republican Style

By Byron A. Ellis

The Republicans and Evangelicals have used family values as a political concept. Although the term is vague and often has different meanings for different people, conservatives understand the term to include abstinence, but you would not know that by their embraced of unwed pregnancy.

We often hear politicians, particularly Republican hawks, articulating that the greatest world threat is a nuclear Iran. However, that type of saber rattling has no historical precedent. Iran has not been an aggressor nation, although some have argued that it supports fringed groups in countries such as Lebanon, Palestine, and Iraq.

The Failure of Western Procedural Justice

By Byron A. Ellis-August 18, 2008

The phrase “territorial integrity” has become a rallying cry for Western leaders regarding the breakaway Georgian provinces. It is, however, ironic that the West did not use such a term for Kosovo when it declared independence from Serbia. The term was not used when the West invaded Iraq, nor when Israel invaded Lebanon or when it bombed Syria. So, why is territorial integrity applicable to Georgia and not to other nations?

McCain stands to be the First U.S. President Born in Panama

By Byron A. Ellis-August 14, 2008

John McCain, the Republican nominee for president of the United States was born in the Panama Canal Zone in 1936. His birthplace has prompted eligibility questions, particularly in light of Article II of the Constitution that requires the U.S. president to be a natural born citizen.

Sovereignty: The Iraq Precedence

By Byron A. Ellis-August 11, 2008

It is interesting to hear Western leaders proclaiming the recognition of Georgia’s sovereignty. However, many of those leaders failed to proclaim the sovereignty of Iraq.

Love and Compassion is the Change that we Need

By Byron A. Ellis-August 07, 2008

When we talk about change, we should be emphasizing a change towards loving our neighbors, reducing arm conflicts, world hunger, and diseases.

The Brilliance of Bush, Cheney, and the Republicans

By Byron A. Ellis-October 5, 2008

History will judge George W. Bush and Dick Cheney as two of the most astute leaders of the twenty first century. Together, with the help of a few neoconservatives, they’ve engineered the greatest bonanza for the oil industry. And, they’ve handily convinced the American public that additional drilling in coastal waters would lower crude oil prices.

Is Opposition to Sexual Preference Discrimination?

By Byron Ellis - July 24, 2008

Sexual preference advocates attempt to use the civil rights movement to buttress their argument against opposition to their behavioral tendencies. Racial discrimination, however, is based on innate racial characteristics. Opposition to sexual preference is predicated on individual behavior.

McCain: A Straight Shooter?

By Byron A. Ellis – July 22, 2008

McCain’s war story political ad is interesting. It implicitly proclaims that service as a fighter pilot and war prisoner embodies relevancy for managing the world’s most powerful country. However, neither is relevant for leadership or management. The ad also revealed that given the opportunity to be freed, McCain refused.

Obama: "Yes we can" move to Educational Vouchers

By Byron A. Ellis - July 17, 2008

Educational vouchers offer a choice to many parents, particularly those living in central cities. And, given a choice, central city parents, like parents who have the means, will choose better schools.

Clearly if al-Bashir is a candidate for the Court, many more contemporary leaders are equally guilty of violating the Statute. For instance, the former South African apartheid leaders, the current Israeli apartheid leaders, the Zimbabwe leadership under Mugabe, and members within the US coalition that authorized torture.

McCain believes that there is no better economist than Phil Gramm. However, according to Gramm Americans are whiners and the country is in a “mental recession.” Gramm assessment is insightful, because he is basically saying that Americans are not capable of assessing their own economic condition. Nonetheless, McCain quickly distanced himself from his top economic adviser remarks.

It is difficult to understand why contemplating military action against Iran which will possible kill and injure many Iranians is good, while Iranian missile test which does not involve loss of life is bad. When the West talks about Iran, it is often an unbalanced conversation; the Iran is bad and the West is good.

Los Republicanos, incluyendo McCain, pretenden ser amigos de los Latinos, pero ellos establecen legislaciones en el nivel local y federal para deportar a los Latinos. Además, los Minute Men, un grupo conservativo Republicano, quiere deportar a Latinos nacidos en los Estados Unidos cuyos parientes son ilegales.

McCain proclaims that his foreign policy experience uniquely position him to be president of the United States; although what the country needs right now is transformational leadership experience. Nonetheless, if McCain is so experienced in foreign policy, he should tell the country how he would respond to another attack by Al Qaeda.

The inability of Congress to properly diagnose the root cause of rising crude oil prices will lead to improper solutions. Congress is now focusing on crude oil traders as the culprit for rising oil prices. However, crude oil traders are not the root cause of rising oil prices. Traders merely capitalize on the root causes, in this case, regional instability due to the Iraq invasion and bellicose behavior towards Iran.

Like Enron’s executives and traders, Chevron’s Corp. CEO, David O’Reilly blames demand for the sky-high gasoline prices. Surely, demand cannot defend itself and for most Americans it is an abstract concept.

Hillary Clinton’s late stage populism stemmed from her newfound ability to connect with average Americans. Her economic populism gave voice to many voters. Barack Obama as yet to show Hillary’s constituents that he is also their voice.

McCain is right; the major issue of the 2008 election is Iraq, because the invasion of Iraq is inextricable linked to higher crude oil prices and thus, it is a major contributor to the adverse performance of the US economy.

According to mayor Bloomberg, “Construction is a dangerous business and you will always have fatalities.” It is unacceptable to posit that construction work will always lead to fatalities, because with proper planning accidents are preventable.

Connors Does a Disservice by Blaming MEND for High Gasoline Prices

By Byron A. Ellis-May 31, 2008

The Time online article, dated May 28, 2008, "The Nigerian Rebel Who "Taxes" Your Gasoline," by Will Connors is interesting for what it leaves out. Connors wants his readers to believe that Henry Okah of the Nigerian Movement for the Emancipation of the Niger Delta (MEND) is the reason why they are paying more at the gas pump. And, indeed violence or the threat of violence in oil rich areas is a major driver in the rise in the price of crude oil.

Crude Oil Prices: Shortage or Speculation?

By Byron A. Ellis-May 24, 2008

All major oil companies use traders to ensure a regular supply of crude oil to their refineries. The trader’s role is to purchase crude oil in advance. Traders also resell crude oil purchased at a low price for a profit.

It is Delusional not to talk to Adversaries

Byron A. Ellis-May 17, 2008

Many so-called Christian leaders have consistently argued that talking to adversaries is a “foolish delusion.” However, in Matthew 5:25, Jesus said to make friend quickly with your opponent, so that your opponent may not hand you over to the judge, and the judge to the officer, and you be thrown in prison. Clearly, Jesus’ words are not “a false comfort of appeasement,” but rather the truth.

Clinton-McCain White Working Class Gas Gimmick

By Byron A. Ellis-May 06, 2008

The holiday gas gimmick reflects what the Clintons think of white working class Americans, which are now the Clintonian new Blacks. The Clintons were able to used Blacks in the past in a similar fashion; they are good at what they do. However, here is why removing the federal gas tax will not reduce the price at the pump.

Removal of the Tax on a Fixed Supply will not reduce the Price

By Byron A. Ellis-May 01, 2008

It is often difficult for non-economists to understand economics. Thus, Hillary and McCain’s proposal of a holiday gas tax reflects their lack of economic understanding. Alchian and Allen noted that the important implication of demand and supply analysis is that no matter what happens, if the demand and supply schedule are unchanged, the price is unchanged. In other words, if gas taxes were reduced it would not reduce the price at the pump as long as the supply and demand schedules are unchanged.

China on the Move

By Byron A. Ellis, May 01,2008

According to La Nación, China is in the process of donating a $72 million dollars National Stadium to Costa Rica. Approximately 800 Chinese citizens will work on the project in La Sabana, San José.

Clinton and McCain Economists?-April 29, 2008

The root cause of the rise in gas prices is the instability in the Middle East. Heightened instability is due to the Iraq invasion and traders capitalizing on supply uncertainties.

Hillary Clinton voted to give the Bush administration the authority to invade Iraq. Therefore, she bears some responsibility for higher energy prices and the economic slowdown. Now, she and McCain, who also voted to authorize the Iraq invasion, call for a suspension of the gas tax, as if suspending the tax will prevent the prices from rising as high as the market can bear. A removal of the tax will only transfer that revenue to the energy companies.

It appears that Clinton and McCain do not understand economics. Likewise, they did not understand the larger consequences of authorizing the administration to invade Iraq.

Obama Needs to Return to His Message-April 28, 2008

Obama must not let Clinton and the media box him into their thought process. Clinton’s initial strategy was to demean his oratory skills. Next she labeled him as elitist. Thus, her negative campaign produced gains in Ohio, Texas, and Pennsylvania. Obama has resisted going negative against the Clintons. But, is that the right strategy?

It may be the honorable strategy, but it may not be the right strategy. Therefore, Obama needs to explain to the American public that Clintonian exposition is about bait and switch politics. For instance, the country’s economic woes are in part a direct result of Hillary and McCain’s vote to give the Bush administration the power to invade Iraq. Moreover, the invasion of Iraq heightened instability in the Middle East. And, it is this instability that caused the increase in crude oil prices and the erosion of household incomes..

Increases in crude oil prices are not due shortage, but rather because oil traders bid up future prices.  Crude oil is the world most actively traded commodity. The price of oil was below $25/barrel before the Iraq invasion, but jumped to $60/barrel by 2005, and in 2007 it was at about $99/barrel.

Most Americans do not understand how futures markets work. It is an auction market in which participants buy and sell commodities in the future. Volume usually increase when there is uncertainty.

The Politics of Racial Division

By Byron A. Ellis, April 26, 2008

The Clintons are close to achieving their objective of a divided Democratic Party and delivering the presidency to McCain. To achieve their objective of preventing Obama from winning the presidency, they have implemented a kamikaze strategy to divide the Democratic Party into blue-collar poor whites on one side and wealthy liberals and African Americans on the other side. What a gift to the Republicans.

Will Americans Once Again Fall for the Politics of Fear?

By Byron A. Ellis, April 25, 2008

McCain and the Republicans are certain that they can again fool the American electorate. As a result, they are reengaging the nation in the politics of fair. Today, however, it is not Iraq; it is Hamas and Iran.

The spin from Hillary’s pundits is that Obama cannot close the deal, but Hillary the “entitled” Democratic nominee is not even close to closing the deal. Statistically, she cannot overtake Obama’s lead in pledged delegates. Therefore, Obama has already closed the deal.

Political Experience or Expediency

By Byron A. Ellis, April 13, 2008

Politicians that claim that Americans are not bitter and frustrated with high gasoline and food prices, and lack of opportunities are not candid, or they have never pulled up to a gasoline pump or sought a rewarding industrial job.

Money Crunch: Where did the Money Go?

By Byron A. Ellis, April 09, 2008

We’ve heard about sub prime mortgages, a liability against borrowers with poor credit histories, and how they have caused economic turmoil. But, is the sub prime mortgage the real problem or just a red herring?

Clintonian Dissonance

By Byron A. Ellis, March 29, 2008

The Clintonian dissonance is potentially destructive to the Democratic Party. Dissonance occurs when a cognitive element is not expected to follow from another. An element is a belief, opinion, attitude, or knowledge about something. Any two cognitive elements can be irrelevant (nothing in common), consonant (consistent) or dissonant (inconsistent). For example, if you think that smoking is harmful to your health, you would probable not smoke. However, what is consonant or dissonant for one person may not be for another.

It is Time for Congress to Restrict Credit Card Interest Rates

By Byron A. Ellis, March 25, 2008

A Stable Middle East is Critical for the US Economy

By Byron A. Ellis

March 17, 2008

According to the neoclassical theory, cyclical fluctuations in productivity lead to business cycles. Thus, in neoclassical parlance, business cycles result from exogenous changes in productivity. However, others view business cycles as a result of malfunctioning markets; this latter view requires policy makers to tinker with the economy: government intervention.

No DNC do over for Florida and Michigan

Byron A. Ellis

March 10, 2008

The Democratic National Committee (DNC) should not reward rule breakers; it would send a wrong signal. Florida and Michigan were well aware of the consequences of breaking the rules.

It’s not the Economy; it’s the Stupid War

By Byron A. Ellis

March 09, 2008

The tendency of many Americans is to identify outcomes as root cause. Thus, when Americans cannot pay their mortgages, they call it a credit crisis; when the economy slows down, they call it an economic crisis. However, the question that we need to answer is what is the root cause of the mortgage and economic crisis.

Ecuador: It will take Time to Reestablish Diplomatic Relationship with Colombia

March 09. 2008

President Correa of Ecuador said on Saturday that reestablishing diplomatic relationship with Colombia would take time. He also said that he anticipates coordination with Venezuela for reestablishing normal diplomatic relationship with Bogotá.

According to Correa, the problem of incursion into Ecuadorian territory has not been solved. Moreover, confidence in the Uribe government will be difficult to reestablish.

He also noted that the only relationship between his government and the Fuerzas Armadas Revolucionarias de Colombia (FARC)  was humanitarian.

President Chávez accompanied Colombian Senator Piedad Córdoba and the mother of hostage Ingrid Betancourt, Yolanda Pulecio, to Cuba on Friday night.

Apparently, they are trying to find a way to liberate the former Colombian presidential candidate Ingrid Betancourt from the FARC.

Political Rhetoric

By Byron A. Ellis

March 06, 2008

Hillary claims that Obama is only speeches. The implication is that somehow she is the opposite, more than speeches. Nonetheless, like all the other candidates she uses speeches to deliver the Clintonian interplay of opposites.

Fiscal Stimulus: The Wrong Economic Remedy

By Byron A. Ellis

March 05, 2008

The fiscal stimulus of approximately $150 billion supported by the Administration, Congress, and the Chairman of the Federal Reserve should, overtime, increase GDP, as well as inflation, interest rate, and unemployment.

What else is the Mainstream Press Censoring from the Public?

The deployment of Prince Harry to Afghanistan was subjected to a British news blackout deal. Accordingly, he has spent over 10 weeks serving in the Helmand Province.

The British media withholding of the story is distressing. How can they be trusted to deliver truthful news?

The story broke because of foreign media. The head of the British Army Chief of the General Staff Sir Richard Dannatt said he was disappointed with the foreign websites that decided to run the story without consulting the Brits.

He failed to recognize that trust in the media and government is paramount. It was this withholding of information by the press, and going along with governments, that got the West into a war of choice, which has caused instability in the Middle East and high crude oil prices.

Dannatt calls the British press responsible for censoring the news; he also noted that a small number of foreign news organizations agreed to withhold the story. No wonder many consumers of news are turning away from the mainstream media.

Presidential Character

By Byron A. Ellis

February 26, 2008

The Clintonian playbook appears to have hit bottom, the only trick left after crying is mocking her opponent. Does the American voter want a crying or mocking president?

Communication is Essential for Leadership

By Byron A. Ellis

February 19, 2008

According to Goldhaber, organizations communication has been called the lifeblood and the glue that binds the organization. Goldhaber also noted that research findings showed a correlation between effective communication and high overall organizational performance.

The Clintonian Legacy: An Embarrassment

By Byron A. Ellis

February 16, 2008

Bill Clinton accuses Senator Obama, his wife’s rival for the Democratic presidential nomination, of ignoring their accomplishment in the White House. It is important to note Bill’s use of words, “their accomplishment.” The implication of “their accomplishment” is that it was a co-presidency; such nonsense is tantamount to a baseball pitcher claiming that his wife was part of his strikeout accomplishment.

Strong Ties: The Economy, Crude Oil Prices, and the Iraq Invasion

By Byron A. Ellis

February 14, 2008

Gross domestic product (GDP) is the market value of the goods and services produced in the United States. It accrues as income (with some minor adjustments) to US business owners and income earners. Consumption, the engine of the economy, is contingent on income, particularly disposable income. Disposable income is basically GDP, adjusted for depreciation, taxes, and government transfers.

Will Super Delegates Thwart the Choice of the Democrats?

By Byron A. Ellis

February 11, 2008

Super delegates should not be allowed to determine the Democratic outcome for the presidential nominee: any backroom deal will backfire. The Democratic presidential nominee should be chosen by the Democratic primary voters and not by super delegates.

Expansionary Economic Policies Leads to Adverse Consequences

By Byron A. Ellis

February 08, 2008

Policy makers have determined that monetary and fiscal expansion is needed to avoid an economic downturn. They know from economic theory that expanding the money supply and providing transfers to tax payers increases aggregate demand. However, economic theory and history also indicates that such expansionary policies always lead to inflationary pressures, output reduction, and unemployment.

The Real Cause of US Economic Problems

By Byron A. Ellis

February 02, 2008

It is interesting to look at historical prices of US regular retail gasoline, Figure 1. US regular retail gasoline prices began a significant rise after the invasion of Iraq. Prior to the invasion prices averaged between $1.00 and $1.50. Prices increased steadily after the Iraq invasion.

The Best Hope for Republicans: The Clintons

Byron A. Ellis

January 31, 2006

Some Democrats, particularly the old guard, have not critically examined the adverse electoral outcome of their affinity to the Clintons. However, the Republicans, who have demonstrated greater strategic abilities, are delighted at the prospect of a Billary candidacy.

Kenyans can do better

Byron A. Ellis

January 30, 2008

The behavior of rampaging Kenyans with machetes, spears, and other makeshift weapons is disgraceful.  Mr. Raila Odinga, the opposition leader, and President Mwai Kibaki have yet to show their leadership skills. It seems that they are content to sacrifice their followers for temporal power. Mayhem in the country is barbaric and unproductive. They ought to settle their dispute without delay.

Voters should Choose Carefully

By Byron A. Ellis

January 29, 2008

Welfare economists indicate that poverty results from individuals choosing more leisure over work. They claim that if two individuals receive the same wage rate, the one that chooses to work more accrues a larger income. This is true if both individuals confront the same opportunities. Individuals under poor governance, however, confront limited opportunities.

Co-opting Obama’s Change Message

Byron A. Ellis

January 06, 2008

Many politicians want voters to believe that experience is the same as leadership. Many technocrats are experienced in their craft but are unable to lead. Leadership is about influence; the ability to inspire individuals for the accomplishment of shared goals. Thus, what some politicians have been labeling experience is more akin to management. That is, understanding how individuals in institutions mechanically comply with routine directives.

Looking Back to 2002: Manipulating Perceptions

By Byron A. Ellis

TBWT Contributor

Article Dated 10/9/2002

It is interesting to observe the media portrayal of Saddam Hussein. It is similar to how the press portrayed Manuel Noriega, the former Panamanian "Strong man." Noriega was a Bush 1 adventure; and during that period, the media often portrayed him wielding a machete. Today, the media visually portrays Hussein wielding a riffle. Such portrayals of adversaries brandishing weapons heightens, and contributes to, the public perception of a threat.

Mitt Romney more Thoughtful than McCain

Presidential candidate John McCain in 2007 joked about bombing Iran. Was it a joke or what he would attempt to do if his presidential bid was successful? Clearly another Republican initiated war in the Middle East will send shockwaves through the energy market, the price of barrel of oil would rise significantly.

It is hard to imagine rational voters supporting someone advocating another war of choice. It appears that Mr. McCain is insensitive and blind to the consequences of wars.

Mr. Mitt Romney, on the other hand, appears to be a more thoughtful candidate. Moreover, he has demonstrated ability to manage in the private and public sectors.

Zoos Need Greater Oversight

Byron A. Ellis

December 28, 2007

On Christmas day a 300-pound Siberian tiger, Tatiana, escaped from the San Francisco Zoo killing one and mauling two individuals. The San Francisco officials have not been able to explain the escape.

Illicit Drugs: The Focus should be on Demand Reduction

Byron A. Ellis

December 27, 2007

According to the White House drug “Czar,” John Walters the wholesale price of cocaine has risen, indicating that enforcement and eradication efforts caused the shortage.

Subsidizing the Rich

Byron A. Ellis

December 15, 2007

When the U.S. government provides subsidy to the poor there is always a negative connotation; critics label them as lazy and undeserving. However, when subsidies are given to the middle class, the rich, and foreign government there is no negative connotation; every year the U.S. government provides large subsidies to Israel, Pakistan, and Egypt.

When will the Fed Alleviate the Monetary Crunch in Central Cities?

Byron A. Ellis

December 14, 2005

It is interesting to observe the Federal Reserve (Fed) behavior towards the monetary crunch plaguing the middle class. The monetary crunch has limited funds for borrowing and caused a slowdown in the housing industry. As a result, there are many unsold and foreclosed homes in middle class communities.

The Fed Temporary Monetary Expansion is Good for the Economy

Byron A. Ellis

December 13, 2007

Yesterday, the Federal Reserve (Fed) established a temporary Term Auction Facility (TAF) and foreign exchange swap lines with other central banks. They noted that these measures were designed to address elevated pressures in the short-term funding markets.

Is the Fed Too Late?

Byron A. Ellis

December 11, 2007

The high price of crude oil is a detriment to the economy, as is the unavailability of credit for mortgages. The Fed cannot correct the former, which is a result of instability in the Middle East, but could have influenced the later earlier. And, yesterday’s reduction in interest rate was smaller than expected and not likely to significantly affect the housing market.

The Need for a New Unity Vision

Byron A. Ellis

December 05, 2007

When we look at the Bush administration invasion of Iraq, it is clear that the preemptive war policy made the United States and the rest of the world worse off. Policies that make us worse off are not good policies.

From Scott McClellan upcoming book:

"I had unknowingly passed along false information. And five of the highest ranking officials in the administration were involved in my doing so: Rove, Libby, the vice President, the President's chief of staff, and the President himself." Post Comments

What is Wealth?

By William Harris

November 22, 2007

It’s the question of the ages – why are you rich and I’m poor?  Why is my country wealthy and your nation mired in poverty?  This last question is the subject of a landmark study conducted by the Environmental Economics Department of the World Bank. 

The Experience Claim

Byron A. Ellis

November 20, 2007

Hillary Clinton claims that she has the experience to be president of the United States and that Obama does not. However, the term experience is difficult to quantify. What does it really means? Does it mean that the nation would be better off reelecting an experienced Republican administration? They have had eight years of governing experience.

Japan Hunting Humpback Whales

The Japanese whaling fleet has instruction to slaughter up to 1,000 whales; their intention is to kill 50 humpback and 50 fin whales. The humpback whales have been protected from extinction since the mid-1960s.

Julie Myers should not be confirmed as head of ICE

Decency and fairness require a no vote on Julie Myers confirmation as the nation’s top immigration officer. Myers, Director of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), and two other agency managers are insensitive to minorities. During the agency Halloween party they gave the most original costume award to a white agency employee dressed as an escaped prisoner with dreadlocks and darkened skin.

Lack of Efficient Financial Markets Creates Income Disparities

Governments in many U.S. central cities, as well as African countries, do not appear to understand the importance of developing financial markets. As a result, they are not able to match saving-surplus economic units in their communities with citizens that have promising opportunities.

Iraq: Mercenary Killings

American security contractors working in Iraq are doing a disservice to the image of the United States. They act as if the lives of Iraqis are insignificant.

A Clear Chance to Stand for Democracy

General Pervez Musharraf, President of Pakistan and Chief of Army Staff of the Pakistan, came to power in a coup d’etat. He ousted an elected government and has suspended Pakistan’s constitution twice. And, he is now terrorizing his opposition.

Using Language to Distort Reality

Language is often used to socially construct reality. That is, to actively create and shape the world through social interactions. Social construct exist because people knowingly agree to act as if they exist.

Robert Gabriel Mugabe it is Time to Exit

Whenever prices of goods or services are set below the market-clearing price, the quantity demanded will exceed the quantity supplied.

Zimbabwe, under Robert Gabriel Mugabe, recently implemented a form of price controls. Mugabe, who has two degrees in economics, ordered a reduction in shop prices by at least half or more.

Obama has Demonstrated Sound Judgment

Pundits, and Hillary Clinton, have made the claim that she has more experience than Barack Obama. But, what is experience?

Ignoring Latin America and Africa is Bad Policy

Many Latin American countries are seeking to strengthen economic and cultural ties with China. Costa Rican president, Óscar Arias, is leading a delegation to Peking, China.

A Call for Cease Fire by Sudanese President

Omar al-Bashir, the President of Sudan, met with Pope Benedict XVI in Rome on the 14^th to discuss peace negotiations for Darfur. The leader of Sudan expressed that a cease fire will begin during the peace talks scheduled to take place in Libya next month.

Exchange is Essential for Economic Growth

A key component of economic growth is economic exchange. Economic exchanges are voluntary transactions between negotiating parties. Generally, efficient exchanges, or markets, require an organizational infrastructure and entities to enforce infrastructure processes. If the infrastructure is absent transactions will be costly or non-existent.

More Police will not Reduce Central City Crimes

It is interesting to hear politicians running for mayoral offices in Baltimore and Philadelphia proclaim that crime in those cities will be reduced by increasing the police force. Thus, they correlate a larger police force with less crime.

Consider Stocks for Wealth Building

A stock, common or preferred, represents a claim on a corporation assets and earnings. It is represented by a stock certificate, often held electronically by a broker. A common stock represents residual interest in the corporation. A preferred stock has certain preferences relative to the common stock.

Iraq: Buying More Time the is not the answer

The administration used Petraeus and Croker to continue pouring money and military sacrifices into Iraq. The war in Iraq was ill conceived and should be terminated.

The democrats have the power to terminate the war, but not fortitude. All they have to do is not fund it. And, they can do so by not bringing a funding bill to the floor.

If the democrats will not do what they were elected to do, Americans should seek the formation of a third party.

Iraq was not the cause of 9/11. Anyone asserting such a claim is deranged. Furthermore, it was not a haven for terrorist until after the ill-conceived US invasion.

We remedy this foolish invasion act by first reversing course and secondly providing reparation to injured Iraqis.

Lack of Liquidity Affects Consumption in Central Cities

Increases in liquid assets tend to increase consumption, if the increases are in the possession of the poor. If the increase in liquid assets is distributed among the rich, the consumption function will not rise as much.

The Death Sentence is Harsh, not Libby’s 2 ½ Years

The former governor of Texas, George W. Bush, commuted Libby’s sentence of 2 ½ years on the grounds that it was too harsh of a sentence. However, according to Sister Helen Prejean, during George W. Bush’s six years as governor of Texas he presided over 152 executions, approximately 2.1 per month. She noted that rate of executions exceeded that of any other governor in the recent history of the United States.

Tony Blair: The Wrong Choice for Middle East Envoy

Tony Blair, one of the architects of the ongoing chaos in the Middle East, has been appointed Middle East envoy by the so-called “Quartet.” The Quartet is a self-appointed group made up of the United States, Russia, the European Union, and the United Nation.

US Strong Ties with Israel, Weak Ties with Palestine

The importance of relationships, or at least the perception of a balanced relationship, is essential in mediating conflict resolution. Therefore, it is paramount that the belligerent members view the conflict mediator as honest and fair.

Hamas’ Reaction was Predictable

In January of 2006, Hamas won a large majority in the Palestinian parliament, 76 of the 132 seats. The Washington Post noted that they trounced the governing Fatah party, who only won 43 seats.

Immigration: Republicans Alienating Latinos

Human migration is human history; it has existed since mankind appeared on the face of the earth. Therefore, modern immigration laws are merely human constructs, induced by primarily by westerners developing nation states and nationality laws.

Preemptive Arrest: Where is the Crime?

Merriam-Webster’s dictionary defines crime as “an act or the commission of an act that is forbidden or the omission of a duty that is commanded by a public law and that makes the offender liable to punishment by that law; especially: a gross violation of law.” Thus, laws set by legislators, or dictators, define crime.

The Republican Debate: Hypocritical

Many Republican presidential candidates cast themselves as protectors of life, and fervently embrace the life of the unborn. However, their zeal as protector of life appears to end once the unborn is out of the womb. Apparently, the life outside of the womb, for them, is not as important as life in the womb. Thus, they advocate terminating the life outside of the womb by advocating for the death penalty and the continuation preemptive wrongfully initiated wars. This dichotomy of embracing life and death simultaneously should raise questions in the minds of voters. Only expediency can lead to the embracement of two opposites, life and death.

During the debate in Manchester, New Hampshire, they propped up life and also death (war) in the same breath. They failed to consider that the billions of dollars wasted on wars in Iraq and Afghanistan could help feed the poor of the world and facilitate a better understanding between the haves and the have not. Republican neoconservative doctrine, and fear mongering, was a salient feature of the debate.

Republicans also want voters to believe that they have the only corner on Christianity, and that voting for them is akin to being connected with goodness and high morality. Christ, however, embodies self-sacrifice and servanthood and in Luke 18:20 He reminds us that we should not kill. Self-sacrifice is not a virtue of economic conservatism. Furthermore, Republican ideas do not square with the be-attitudes of Christianity (Matt 25).

Christian voters should know that not everyone that advocates Christianity is a Christian. There is no room for lukewarmness in Christianity; so claiming to be pro life for life in the womb and not for life outside the womb is truly unchristian.

Send comments to: tjp@jethroproject.com 

Democratic Debate: Kucinich and Gravel Best in Class

During the Sunday, June 03, 2007, Democratic debate in Manchester, New Hampshire in answering Wolf Blitzer hypothetical question about locating Osama bin Laden in Pakistan and having only a small window to assassinate him, would they do it if innocent life would be loss?

Six of the eight Democratic candidates raised their hand indicating that they would do it even if innocent lives would be loss. The only two that did not raise their hand were Ohio Rep. Dennis Kucinich and former Alaska Sen. Mike Gravel.

I wondered, if Blitzer had changed the location of bin Laden to England, France, Germany or some other wealthy country, would these six Democrats be so quick to take innocent lives?

Of course not, and this differential in valuing the life of the poor (and the brown) is what causes so much turmoil in the world today and misapprehension about the good intentions of Americans.

Thus, these six Democrats are not different from their Republican counterpart. If anyone of them were to be elected, it would be more of the same: violence and subjugation.

America needs non-violent methods to solve disagreements with poor, resource rich, nations. And, these six Democrats do not appear ready to offer effective alternatives.

America should treat the rest of the world in the same manner that it wants to be treated. If we do not want violence to be imposed up on us, we should not impose it on others.

Rep. Kucinich and former Sen. Gravel, on the other hand, understand that violence leads to more violence; we can clearly see it in Iraq and Afghanistan.

Send comments to: tjp@jethroproject.com 

China must Support the Deployment of U.N. Peacekeepers in Darfur

China as Sudan’s largest trading partner has a responsibility to use it leverage to let Sudan know that repressive behavior against its own citizens is unacceptable. If China chooses to ignore its responsibility to the international community, then the international community should ignore China.

China can be ignored by rejecting Chinese goods and services and by boycotting the Olympics. It is paramount that China supports, without delay, the deployment of U.N. peacekeepers in Darfur. Otherwise, we should begin a worldwide grass root boycott on key Chinese goods.

The World, including the African Diaspora, should begin right now to reject al Chinese goods and services, because China has turned a blind eye to the dislocation of more than 200,000 Sudanese from oil rich areas.

According to Washington Post, China’s ambassador to the United Nation (U.N.) argued that China could not support a U.N. resolution to deploy U.N. troops in Darfur because Sudan was not ready. However, such Chinese position will contribute to the deaths of more Sudanese citizens.

So, when you purchase an item check the label, if it made in China, it is an item that should not be purchased.

Send comments to: tjp@jethroproject.com

The Opportunity for a Third Viable Political Party

The inability of the Democrats to restrain the administration on Iraq may indicate the need for a strong third party that can represent the American voters.

Accordingly, the Democrats will present a war-funding bill that excludes the innocuous timelines for withdrawal from Iraq.

Apparently, the Democrats are all talk but with no ability to deliver. And, it appears that the administration understood their game.

The Democrats want their constituents to believe that they will fight for troops withdrawal at some future date. However, why should their constituents believe them?

The Administration, on the other hand, appears to be planning for a second surge. And, the public has been warned that more troops in Iraq will lead to more US casualties.

A third party leadership may be more effective in achieving the voters’ mandate. And, indeed, this upcoming election appears to be an opportune time for a no nonsense third political party.

Send comments to: tjp@jethroproject.com

War is not for the Elite

If the deciders of war had to send their offspring to fight with the “commoners,” they would think long and hard before going to war. Case in point, the Brit Ministry of Defense do not think that Price Harry should be subjected to the same risk of other British soldiers. In essence, from their point of view his life is more valuable.

Thus, the Ministry of Defense is basically saying that what they are fighting for in Iraq is not worth the life of the Prince, rather the life of the expendable commoners. What a statement to the British army!

Send comments to: tjp@jethroproject.com

The US Needs a Peace Czar, not a War Czar

If the aim is stability and peace in Iraq, the choice should have been a peace czar and not a war czar. Naming of a war czar signals a continuation of US war posture, which has been rejected by the rest of the world and now by many at home.

Afghan Civilian Casualties

In January 2002, the BBC News reported that the number of civilian deaths in Afghanistan by US bombs had surpassed the death toll of September 11. They noted that nearly 3,800 Afghans died between October 7 and December 7, 2001.

On May 9^th, 2007, ABC News reported that a US commander apologized and made $2,000.00 payments to family members of 19 Afghan civilians killed by the US during a March 4, 2007 incident.

Venezuela Leaves the World Bank

Venezuela will no longer be a member of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) or the World Bank (WB). It has decided to create a multilateral Latin American Bank, Banco del Sur.

Nothing New from the South Carolina Debate

During the South Carolina Democratic debate, presidential hopefuls Rep. Denis Kucinich and former Alaska Senator Mike Gravel argued that “warring diplomacy” was a wrong policy for the United States. The other presidential hopefuls, however, supported “warring diplomacy.”

Crude Oil Prices: Hidden War Tax

Fiscal conservatives often rave that they are the party of low taxes. However, they are also the party of hidden taxes and costly transfers from the middle class to the wealthy. Their decision to embark on a war based on false premises caused instability in the Middle East and higher crude oil prices.

McCain’s Comment on Iran is Similar to Ahmadinejad’s on Israel

It was interesting for voters to have the opportunity to hear Senator John McCain’s comment on bombing Iran. His comment was reminiscence of Ahmadinejad's position on Israel. And, the civilized world deplored Ahmadinejad’s position on Israel.

What if Virginia Tech had a Good Emergency Response Plan?

What if Virginia Tech administrators had a viable emergency response plan? Would the outcome be different?

Wars what are they good for?

Wars by nature are illogical and often fought in the name of god. Of course, they are not fought in the name of the true God. Warring countries and non-state actors wantonly kill civilians. It is estimated that in 1945 about 140,000 civilians died in Hiroshima and 75,000 in Nagasaki as a result of the nuclear holocaust.

The housing market

The housing market consumed by hyperinflation is out of reach for a large number of potential buyers; their salaries cannot afford the steep mortgage payments.

Job creation

Job creation is contingent on aggregate demand, and aggregate demand is contingent on income. When aggregate demand is high, unemployment is low. Thus, governments use fiscal and monetary policies to increase aggregate demand. Fiscal policy is under the control of the executive and the Federal Reserve controls monetary policy.