[mdlug-discuss] Ethanol vs gasoline economy [Was: [mdlug] Automotive technical info ...]

[allen]

Wolfger wrote:
> The problem with socialism is human nature.
> The problem with capitalism is the same.
> If it's not controlled by the fat cats in congress, it's controlled by
> the fat cats of the corporate world. I'm not sure there even *is* a
> lesser of those two evils. The only conclusion I've been able to come
> up with is that I should be pronounced benevolent dictator of the
> world for eternity. I can't please all of the people all of the time,
> but at least I can please myself. :-
No, there have to be other differences. Capitalism, after all, doesn't 
sport the body count of socialism.

I'd say that socialism rewards the worst aspects of human nature at the 
expense of society and capitalism harnesses the worst aspects of human 
nature for the betterment of society.

Greed and ruthlessness don't go away in a workers paradise, they get 
driven underground there to rot out the foundations of the society.

Capitalism takes those lemons and makes lemonade out of them and in so 
doing achieves what socialists claim but never demonstrate: a classless 
society. It's the disregard for class distinctions, for the arbitrary, 
valueless qualities upon which class-based societies are built, that 
makes capitalism the great leveler. That's why the poor but honest lad 
who works hard, keeps his eyes open and is ready to take a risk is both 
a clichè and the basis for a fair number of biographies.

Good luck with that benevolent dictator of the world for eternity thing 
but I understand the field of contestants is pretty crowded. I've 
already filled out all the paperwork and finished the "What would you do 
on your first day as benevolent dictator of the world for eternity" 
essay. I am a little concerned about the bathing suit competition though.

Allen