Dr Who, et al,
I often don't make the proper connections in these discussions. In this case my point was the the rich and powerful, having influence over government leadership, misdirect legislation that would focus resources on the issues at hand. The sheer number of events demonstrates that this is a systemic problem, and not just a random criminal act. Through these influences, government leaders have demonstrated misfeasance, malfeasance and nonfeasance over a sustained period.
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True, and were helped by major accounting firms.
These slights of hand demonstrate just how far the American Business Practice has sunk in terms of honest, integrity and moral values. The magnitude of the damage doe, shows just how dangerous unrestrained capitalism (maximize the wealth of the shareholder) has become.
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There are two issues here:
- What is in the best interest of the nation as a whole?
- Is honesty, integrity, moral values and patriotism part of a sound business practices?
Government generally does not intervene because "people" run the government. These are people that have something to gain. We (as a nation) bailed-out the Auto Industry and the Banking Industry - FreddyMac and FannyMae because the rich and powerful had too much to lose.
In the recent debt ceiling struggle, there were many outspoken and influential people that advocated defaulting on the debt payments. This is a far cry from the ethics of my father who taught me a hand shake and my word were the bond of a man.
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Your implication is true; no question. We change the focus (to Walking the Beat). Having acknowledged that, my point is different.
Business and Capitalism --- reinvestment in the nation, instilling honesty, patriotism, and integrity need to be revitalized. We should not not have to police it, we need a nation of people that want to rebuild America --- awaken the sleeping giant!
We need to replace these aging and crony fostering political elite members of Congress that have not one interest in making America strong.
Most Respectfully,
R
