Eco-Socialism

The Eco-socialists in Europe are catching up with the United States. That may sound odd, but it is true. While the U.S. may not have a thriving green/socialist party, it does have green/socialist policies.

Chief among them are farm subsidies for bio-fuels. These subsidies accomplish two goals. First, it (in their minds) is a boon for the environment. They think that the extraction and use of carbon based fuels is "raping" the earth, yada yada. Secondly, they want to control the free market to create a better outcome. They mistakenly think that bureaucrats can create a society that is based on some fuzzy ideals of social justice.

According to the NYT, farmers in Europe are only now growing bio-fuel crops. They are replacing wheat and barley with rapeseed. Anyone with the slightest ability to think logically would immediately know that items made with wheat and barley would become more expensive. The main two products being pasta and (most unfortunately) beer.

The Eco-socialists are hurting the poorest people in the world the hardest. No bourgeoisie will suffer. Although I couldn't possibly understand the Eco-socialists, I will venture a guess. While the poor might suffer in the short run, the long run goal is to also control the means of producing food. Maybe they think that subsidies will lead to greater control (which they are probably correct about). Either way we will all lose.

Environmental Debate

“Make no mistake, the issue of environmental conservation sits squarely on the battle line between government and liberty.”

Governor Mark Sanford of South Carolina wrote an opinion piece for the Washington Post that expressed exactly how I feel about the environment issue.

There is no doubt that there is a problem. Human actions have had a measurable effect on the planet. I see no need to continue this debate. Those who deny climate change seem ignorant when confronted with solid scientific facts. The real question: how bad is the problem and what should we do about it?

This is where Al Gore and his minions go off the deep end. Their arguments are equivalent to saying a paper cut will cause death from loss of blood, so therefore the solution must be to cut off the finger.

The Gorites are winning the debate because conservatives have been slow to respond with sensible solutions. Governor Sanford lays out a plan for confronting the barbarians. He argues that conservatives must frame the debate around principles of stewardship and personal responsibility.

Conservation is also compatible with economic growth. Oil companies are, and have been, pursuing alternative energy sources because it is in their best interest. Companies should be encouraged to utilized eco-friendly means of construction and operation. Cutting costs is more than compatible with the goals of corporate America.

The bottom line here is the Gorites want to control your life via the Environment. We must acknowledge that there is a problem and formulate solution compatible with personal freedom.