Orwell wrote:
Oddly enough, most people you talk to view the erratic nature of gas prices as indication of a massive conspiracy among oil companies. But really, if they were just greedy, they could better coordinate changes in gas prices to get more money while inciting less bitterness. If they were doing this intentionally, you would have to conclude that they are very foolish as they are making their business a political issue, and there are now threats to their profits once politicians get involved in "punishing" oil companies for earning too much profit.
I find that odd. Demand for gas should not be so erratic where changes would be justified, therefore if you are profit maximizing, it would seem wisest to set a price and stick to it. You are right on the second part as well, a political retaliation would hurt them more in the long run than the high prices in the short run.
oscuria wrote:
The reason is that others should not be subjected for the foolishness of a few.
I agree, which is I don't like government. In government, folly can be seen in terms of objective failure, in individual decision making, we merely have choices based upon values.
oscuria wrote:
Ah, libertarians with their silly beliefs.
Ah, fascists with their stupid follies.
Orwell wrote:
You may mock my beliefs as much as you like. However, I see you are unable to come up with a convincing refutation of them. I tend to argue for libertarianism deontologically though, so if you are interested in utilitarian arguments for it those would probably be better addressed to Awesomelyglorious.
Actually, I argue for libertarianism from more of a deontological standpoint as well, but I engage in utilitarian arguing all of the time.
Quote:
I find nothing in libertarianism that allows for true liberty (in the sense of it being applicable). I compare it to eloquent poetry that is without any impact or meaning.
Well, the issue is what you mean by "true liberty". The term is poorly defined to start off with, however, if we argue that liberty is the right to legitimately control oneself, then libertarianism, which starts off with self-ownership is the system OF true liberty.
oscuria wrote:
It is silly this greed people exhibit.
It is human about this greed people exhibit.