tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7125040249277449921.post1391173540390189373..comments2012-01-06T07:02:25.681-08:00Comments on Praxis and Prognosis: Hollow Recommendations Delivered with DerisionSamBausBouthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07416800442347479911noreply@blogger.comBlogger1125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7125040249277449921.post-12667527055865289332011-11-05T13:22:14.340-07:002011-11-05T13:22:14.340-07:00Sam, you never cease to amaze me with your insight...Sam, you never cease to amaze me with your insight. I have some comments I'd like to add:<br /><br />1. I think the intent of increased taxes on the wealthy is not to "soak" the rich, however, I think that it would, by increasing the tax rate, reflect the notion that, if you have more, you can afford to pay more. There's a big difference between making $25,000/yr. and $250,000/yr. You are able to live very well off of the latter salary base, so in my opinion, it is not detrimental for you to pay a higher tax rate than it would be for both of us to have our taxes raised. The notion that "why do my taxes have to be raised when yours do not" is what irritates people. <br /><br />2.The demographic transition in this country starting in 2007 is beginning to reflect European countries like France and Italy. The dependent:independent ratio is increasing because many baby boomers are entering into retirement and thus, into retirement benefits. The majority of America's debt is owed to those individuals who collect social security, veterans' benefits, military checks, 401k and other pensions. Therefore, there inherently becomes a systematic eliminator of those who are eligible for these benefits if the fabric of the American Economic Status is to be maintained (debt ceiling). This instance supplements the rising health care costs and the automation and "more with less" issue for those still in the workforce. <br /><br />3. I understand the increase in funding on public education as a necessity, however, from my own experience, I'm not sure how much of the increase is dedicated to the "quality of education". Take my institution for example: our Campus Activities Board and our Athletic Programs receive FY budgets that are 3 to 4 times more than all of our scholarly and service organizations. PRSSA may appeal for up to $1,000 per semester for its endeavors. Other organizations may receive up to $30,000. The Stage Performances Committee of the Campus Activties Board alone receive $70,000 per semester! Of course, these funds are comprised of state funding and a portion of tuition costs, but it reflects where the focus of the University is on education and scholarly initiatives. Furthermore, you're right that the distractions have increased in social media, television, video games, etc., only exacerbating the underlying issues with brokenness in the family, lack of nutritional meals that promote healthy brain and body function, lack of respect for teachers and instructors within the education institution as well as from false impression of good parents by members of Generation X already marginalized into society from their own misfortunate childhoods, and above all, a lack of moral balance guided by a solid spiritual, not religious, foundation with our Creator.Anonymousnoreply@blogger.com