News you won't find on CNN

Professor George A. Akerlof, co-winner of the 2001 Nobel Prize in economic sciences, is interviewed in this article by Der Spiegel (Online). He speaks of the impact of the Bush Administration's policies. Here are some choice excerpts:

Akerlof: "The government is not really telling the truth to the American people... What we have here is a form of looting." "I think this is the worst government the US has ever had in its more than 200 years of history. It has engaged in extraordinarily irresponsible policies not only in foreign and economic but also in social and environmental policy. This is not normal government policy. Now is the time for people to engage in civil disobedience."

Spiegel Online: "Of what kind?"

Akerlof: "I don't know yet. But I think it's time to protest - as much as possible."

Amen to that. A citizenry who is not interested in defending it's own democracy will find itself removed of its civil liberties and freedoms, and eventually its so called democracy. A citizenry not allowed to question its own government (You're either with us or against us) is being denied its ability to defend it's own democratic process.

Far be it from me to suggest (out loud even) that americans should engage in civil disobedience to defend their own freedoms. But if I may make a suggestion, you DON'T HAVE TO VOTE FOR THE IDIOT again. Just let this unfortunate time pass into history and start picking up the pieces.

And another quote that comes to mind, that may or may not be related to the current situation (you decide):

"Voice or no voice, the people can always be brought to the bidding of the leaders. That is easy. All you have to do is tell them they are being attacked, and denounce the peacemakers for lack of patriotism and exposing the country to danger. It works the same in any country." - Hermann Goering

Yes. It apparently does.

Hat Tip for todays topic goes to TRITE REMARKS. Yes, I was inspired. Kudos to Trite.