I really find the vast majority of people in the O'Club to be extraordinarily narrow-minded and thoughtlessly bigoted... but this is a topic that I am actually interested in, so I'll dive into the skunk pool.
Lepaul, Laser, any other posters who are in favor of laissez-faire capitalism, do you truly believe that the 1880s were as good as it ever got for the United States? Answer that honestly, even if it means you have to go read a few books. If so, you are in luck, because we've been headed back that way since the late 70s, and it looks like the pendulum isn't getting set to swing the other way... ever. Laser, I have a feeling I would *really* like to sit and have a beer and just shoot the toejam about this kind of thing, even though I disagree vehemently with most of your positions.
I do want to pose a question for you though. Lets say we get to the point that capitalism is SUPPOSED to get to. One guy has all the money, and power... and everyone else has nothing. Do you just hope you are that guy, or what? Or do you favor womanly government intervention to keep the economy inefficient? Sorry, I was channelling Lazs there
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By the way... unions are a direct result of the 1880-1900 period. If you are looking for their raison d'etre... read up on your US History.