I, for one, do not welcome our new oligarchic overlords
Even the Economist is willing to mention that U.S. social mobility is on the decline — the article features headlines like “More dynastic than dynamic” and “Back to the 1880s.”
The past couple of decades have seen a huge increase in inequality in America. The Economic Policy Institute, a Washington think-tank, argues that between 1979 and 2000 the real income of households in the lowest fifth (the bottom 20% of earners) grew by 6.4%, while that of households in the top fifth grew by 70%. The family income of the top 1% grew by 184%—and that of the top 0.1% or 0.01% grew even faster. Back in 1979 the average income of the top 1% was 133 times that of the bottom 20%; by 2000 the income of the top 1% had risen to 189 times that of the bottom fifth. […]
The most remarkable feature of the continuing power of America’s elite—and its growing grip on the political system—is how little comment it arouses. Britain would be in high dudgeon if its party leaders all came from Eton and Harrow. Perhaps one reason why the rise of caste politics raises so little comment is that something similar is happening throughout American society.
Ah, the good ol’ 1880’s, when robber barons casually said things like I can hire one half of the working class to kill the other half. Truly, the Republican party can make America what it once was.
Total Bastard Jimcat says:
Given that the population of the United States is projected to rise to over 400 million by 2050, hiring half of the working class to kill the other half doesn't sound like such a bad idea.
And the sooner it's done, the fewer bodies to dispose of.
Posted by Total Bastard Jimcat on September 16 2005 15:36
Hello, my name is Chuck. I have recently been suffering severe back spasms, specifically rhomboid muscles, as a result of computer use. I have been away from work for the past month and a half and although I have noticed some improvement, use of a mouse and keyboard still causes me pain within a very short period of time.
I am searching for people who are suffering a similar condition and want to discuss my situation with them. I read Mr. Lopez's article regarding RSI, and wondered if anyone here can direct me to any forums, websites or individual email addresses that might provide relevant information. Thanks in advance
Posted by Chuck on October 24 2005 16:33