Display:
It said: "Like alchemists looking for a way to turn basic elements into gold, everyone wants a simplistic explanation for high prices," bluntly adding: "Often it is a case of political expediency to find a scapegoat for higher prices rather than undertake serious analysis or perhaps confront difficult decisions."

Wasn't "Supply and Demand" a simplistic enough explanation for prices? Or is the invisible hand only believable as a good thing, and for bad things we need a more classical, personified scapegoat?

When the capital development of a country becomes a by-product of the activities of a casino, the job is likely to be ill-done. — John M. Keynes

by Migeru (migeru at eurotrib dot com) on Wed Jul 2nd, 2008 at 02:06:12 AM EST
Considering that oil isn't optional, it's bizarre that prices haven't been higher for longer.

I wonder if the role of the optimistic predictions hasn't been to reflect reality, but to create downward pressure on prices.

by ThatBritGuy (thatbritguy (at) googlemail.com) on Wed Jul 2nd, 2008 at 07:03:53 AM EST
[ Parent ]
I'm translating an interview with the OPEC secretary general in which he claims it's the other way around.

When the capital development of a country becomes a by-product of the activities of a casino, the job is likely to be ill-done. — John M. Keynes
by Migeru (migeru at eurotrib dot com) on Wed Jul 2nd, 2008 at 07:11:05 AM EST
[ Parent ]
Well said! Suddenly there is no more noisy worship of the free market. Instead we only hear, "Get this f***g invisible hand off my SUV!"
by Ralph on Wed Jul 2nd, 2008 at 12:25:20 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Display:
Login
. Make a new account
. Reset password
Debates
Campaigns
Occasional Series
Agriculture
by afew - Aug 7

Anglo Disease
by Migeru - Aug 3