Wednesday, May 13, 2009

modern guilt

For the past 6 months, the world seemed to hold its breath. The times of economic uncertainty which have been long predicted by analysts are here. It gripped many people (some by the balls) from various nationalities and backgrounds. Collapse of corporate giants can only mean one thing; no one is safe.

Funnily, not a single government offer themselves up to take lead in solving the crisis. Most choose to sit back and 'analyse' (in political-speak, it means observing what a person/organisation/government is doing and bag the shit out of it) the current situation. It is very idiotic of them to blame each other for the mess they've caused while it is VERY clear that quick, decisive measures need to be taken.

I do not earn enough to be affected (yet) or have a life/death obligation to support a family. But I want to offer this point of view (feel free to criticize)

The 21st century world had become a materialistic one. We study very hard to secure a university degree which, in turn, does not give a quick and certain secure and permanent career. When we do hit the workforce, we are pushed to slave most of our daily hours to our work. Money is essential to survive in the contemporary world.

We are pushed to slave most of our daily hours at work.

1 in 3 marriages in Australia fails.
We spend less time with our families than our predecessors.
We spend 20% less time sleeping because of our daily routines.
Our debts and spending have grown disproportionately compared to our predecessors 50 years ago.

Perhaps the recession is needed.

We need to take a hard look at ourselves. Do we spend enough time with the family? Are we satisfied on personal level? Are we satisfied mentally?

Growth is a good thing but when that growth becomes too big, it becomes a problem that needs to be taken care of. The recession is the proof that our modern economy is NOT sustainable. We only think of the short term gains rather than looking for the long term gains. Environmental issues are neglected because they are seen as a hindrance to achieving our wants.

Perhaps it is time to cool down and spend more time interacting with other people. Socialise with friends. Spend more time with your loved ones. And reflect on your personal wellbeing, both physically and mentally.

4 comments:

  1. Firstly, reagarding grammar:

    "the world seemed to hold its breath" OR "the world seems to have held"

    "The times of economic uncertainty which have been long predicted by analyst are here."

    "not a single government offers themselves up"

    "I do not earn much" or "I do not earn enough to be affected"

    "which, in turn, does not" (this sentence is a bit funny anyway. Try something like "which doesnt even guarentee a secure...")

    "we are pushed to slave most of our daily hours at work"

    "We need to take a hard look at ourselves"

    "Are we satisfied on a personal level?"

    Sorry for being a poobum english teacher-like person.

    Secondly, regarding content:

    year 12 economics tells me that economic growth and living standards have both a compatible and conflicting relationship. While an increased GDP satisfies more of our wants, it also means that we have to work harder to increase our aggregate supply, which leads to externalities(side effects) like the ones you mentioned, pollution and working longer hours, sleeping less etc.

    So all you say is true, but thats just the opportunity cost of being wealthier. If we all want new ipods, new speakers, grand pianos, chandeliers and nice cars, then this is the price we pay as a nation.

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  2. year 12 economics tells me that economic growth and living standards have both a compatible and conflicting relationship. While an increased GDP satisfies more of our wants, it also means that we have to work harder to increase our aggregate supply, which leads to externalities(side effects) like the ones you mentioned, pollution and working longer hours, sleeping less etc.

    So all you say is true, but thats just the opportunity cost of being wealthier. If we all want new ipods, new speakers, grand pianos, chandeliers and nice cars, then this is the price we pay as a nation

    ReplyDelete
  3. This comment has been removed by the author.

    ReplyDelete
  4. CAH i deleted the first comment accidently D:

    anything that grows is bound to stop or just let loose and die out.

    I think that's what happened to AIG. When their biggest strength; trust, was turn over, and their hypocrisy was divulged, they collapsed.

    It could be fairly said that maybe it is a time to sit back and rest (or just have a go at government while u can =]) but it is also a time to hang on tight with people around you.

    ahaha I suck at being subtle..
    I was thinking of writing something political this week as well, but then it would take me ages to come up with something decent D:

    so i shall just sit here and listen to hamish and andy =]

    ReplyDelete