Economics #2

Mark and Sarah suggest that Socialism will fix all the problems that exist within the flawed capitalist society. In truth there is no form of government that exists without flaws. No matter which form of government is being discussed, it can never be perfect because they are all run by humans, which are flawed in themselves. Socialism suggests that the government should be in control of all monetary and personal possessions so that the wealth can be equally distributed among citizens. This type of government would fail miserably because there is no incentive to advance oneself. For example, if someone works forty-hour weeks while another sits at home and watches TV, both would receive the same amount of payment from the government. What keeps the hardworking people from simply quitting and reaping the benefits of others’ work? Another major flaw in this system is that it strongly relies on its claim of equal distribution. The fact of the matter is that a completely equal distribution of wealth is impossible. The idea of Socialism is a plan for a utopian society. The thing about of utopian societies is that they are not achievable. The suggestion would be wonderful if it was possible and worked as they suggest, however, in the world we live in, it is not an option. With a small group of people in charge of everything there is always the possibility that they will take advantage of the situation. Socialism claims that this form will create a classless society however, the ideas proposed would actually make a distinction and create two different classes: those who control the money and those who don’t. As for the ideas presented by Michael Moore, he claims that people who have most of the money keep the money and do not put it to use and thus, since the amount of money available is finite, others are left wanting. While he is quick to point out the problem he does not give a suggestion for how to fix the situation. If the money was simply redistributed, the desire to advance oneself would be without reward as suggested earlier. In conclusion, Socialism looks great on paper and gives people hope that a seemingly perfect society can exist, however when actually put into use, it would fail miserably.

Economics #1

I actually really enjoyed Mr. Moore’s clip and made me really think about what he was saying.  I found it very interesting when he pointed out that it was wrong when the rich man would walk into the room and take nine pieces of the pie and leaves one piece for the poor.  I agree that it is wrong that the (some) rich feel they can do and have anything and everything they want and the less fortunate can have what is leftover.  At times they do not feel they have to follow the laws that are set for the good of all people.  We have been learning that there are different degrees of wealth and poverty.  Some feel that they are happy and satisfied with material possessions rather than Jesus.  I feel it is necessary for everyone to know how a successful economic system should work and that it takes the whole society working together to make it succeed. Mr. Moore pointed out that the system should be ran by the people, for the good of the people with good moral and ethical beliefs. I feel as Christians we can make a difference by bringing Christian ethical and moral values and beliefs to our society.