Feb. 8, 2008
Long ago, I decided to take my stand in the United States. I speak the American language in the widest sense of the word. I know how the system works.
What does the country offer that gives me hope that there is long-term hope for time and money expended here?
1. A very large free trade zone -- the largest on earth. This has been its #1 economic advantage since 1788.2. A tradition of officially distrusting politicians
3. A tradition of localism (weakening rapidly)
4. A social order based on eight words: (1) Live and let live; (2) Let's make a deal.
5. A 40-hour work week (not less) with 2 weeks of paid vacation (not more)
6. Weak labor unions, growing weaker
7. Not much envy
8. Easy creation of small businesses
9. A tradition of entrepreneurship
10. Property rights in land
11. Widespread gun ownership
12. A secure jury system
13. The first amendment
14. A lot of churches -- countervailing power to the state, if pushed
15. 3,000+ counties -- separate jurisdictions (sheriffs)
16. Geographical mobility ("Kiss my tailgate!")
17. A tradition of saying, "You, and who else?"
18. A million guys nicknamed Bubba
19. A three centuries-old literature of political resistance
20. A lot of charitable giving
21. Habeas corpus
22. Decent yet varied weather (outside of North Dakota)
23. Low real estate prices outside of large cities and bubble zones
24. American Marxism (Groucho, Harpo, and Chico)
I have probably missed a lot more.
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