ENN Forum: Our Readers Speak

Typography
You can learn much by visiting ENN on a regular basis because we provide the latest news and views from all over the world, and from some of the most prominent environmental organizations on the planet. But there is much to learn from you -- our readers.

You can learn much by visiting ENN on a regular basis because we provide the latest news and views from all over the world, and from some of the most prominent environmental organizations on the planet. But there is much to learn from you -- our readers. ENN Forum provides you an opportunity to share your knowledge with thousands of readers. And many people who have signed up to post on ENN Forum have provided some great information.


For instance, in the "Water Cooler" section of the forum, there is a continuing discussion about dichotomous party politics in the US. Forum member "MacLir" discusses the history of the two political parties in the US, primarily for the benefit of those living outside the US.


"Democrats - Socialistic in direction whether they admit it or not, they support big government with many "bread and circuses" funded by increased taxes. Generally a party of the hereditary rich and the poor.


Republicans - Non-socialist and proud of it, they support limiting government to inherently governmental functions and allowing income producers to spend their money in response to market forces and reducing taxes to allow this. Generally a party of the "self-made" rich and the middle class.


From these tendencies, Democrats are accused of excessive taxes to support giveaway programs and Republicans of being in industry's hip pocket.


!ADVERTISEMENT!

Demographically, minorities tend to be Democrats, which is interesting, since Abraham Lincoln (as in Emancipation Proclamation) was a Republican and the Ku Klux Klan (hyper-racist organization) was started by the Democrats. Look it up if you don't believe me."


Forum member Hayduke reminds us, however, that the historical antecedent is not necessarily indicative of the case today: "MacLir, it is worth noting that many of the ideals espoused by these parties have gone from one party to the other historically. Perhaps a gross over-simplification, but in many ways the Republicans of the eras you've sited would be Dems today and vice-versa."


If you still miss graduate school, forum member "Sushil yadav" presents a theory and a (very long) explanation of that theory. (It's also in the "Water Cooler" section.) The title of the post is "Industrial Society Destroys Mind and Environment." Gets right to the point there -- but it's not light reading! Of course, you have the opportunity to comment on it. We're environmentalists, but do we believe this?


The debate about hybrid cars continues; this thread is in the "Climate" Forum. Member "Tater" talks about why getting a Prius might not be cost-effective: " I drive a 99 S-10 pickup that gets 25mpg highway. Driving 35,000 miles per year, I'd have to drive a Prius for over ten years before any fuel savings would climb over the cost of the vehicle (25,000 for a USED Prius vs. 3,000 for my pickup). Car makers will have to make things a lot cheaper, or a lot better before I'll stick my neck out."


Responds forum member "Pbirder": "But if you drive 35,000 miles a year, are you going to drive ten more years (350,000 miles) before having to replace your truck?? I have no idea what a used Prius will cost in a few years, but I can buy a NEW one for $25,000, and presumably they will be much cheaper used..." Priuses are clearly popular with those who care about the environment, but this conversation gives us an example of the types of chats that are going on all over the US. Car makers would be well-served to listen.


Be sure to visit ENN Forum to see what the ENN community has to say. Also, sign up to become a posting member and put your two cents in. It only takes a few minutes, and gives you the opportunity to contribute to the conversations taking place there right now.