Is a "Great Depression" around the corner? Maybe not, but something very like it is already enveloping all of us. As this reality dawns, major changes begin, first on a micro level, then on am macro.
To go forward, we must first go 22 years backward. And this time, we must guarantee that the Bells can never be put back together again. They're dangerous to the whole concept of innovation, which is the only thing the U.S. economy has going for it.
The management process at Google is to hire the very best people, and to give projects their head. That's great. But if this is to be a business, you have to show a little discipline, rein some things in, push others, set priorities, seek profit. Is this happening? Doesn't appear to be. Yet.
It's at these times that a flick like King Arthur appeals. It may take 1,000 years. We may all pass into legend. But if we stay strong, stay brave, and stay true to our beliefs, we will prevail.
It's the faltering-and-failing bit that today's Republicans don't get. It is this, more than anything else, we should fight to protect, not only in the interests of those people on the bottom, but in the interests of the business leadership of tomorrow.
Sam Walton cared about his people. That's the reason he called them "associates." He was always going into stores and leading pep rallies, not just because it helped his profits but because it helped them. He got a lot of those early associates in as small investors, and made them into millionaires.
Drug scandals? No favorite? No Lance? We're seeing the best Tour ever.
Digital copies are not perfect, anymore than LPs were perfect, or tapes were perfect. The Internet may give you the ability to get a new copy, but it will take time to download, and (if it is a copy of a copy of a copy etc. etc. etc.) it's liable to be just as buggy as the DVD.
At some point Americans must realize that, if they wish to remain economically competitive -- if they wish to keep their houses and cars and flush toilets -- that they must do everything they can to encourage democracy and science.
Believe in the values of this medium.
