The broken window theory.

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Of course, this theory is based on government spending. At least the most recent version, and from what I understand. It, of course, in this case, is bunk. Government spending, almost to a cent, is a waste. Now, waste is necessary, in smaller sips. And there are bits of spending which actually prove either worthwhile in a large sense, think museums at least within reason, and transportation such as roads, bridges, and such (again within reason and probably excluding Bus, train, and definitely excluding high speed trains).

However, what is happening in Japan, while tragic due to the loss of life and serious potential for a number of nuclear disasters, may end up having a net positive affect on that nation. Once a shining city, but only for a short time, it has economically fallen into decay, disrepair, and fiscal lunacy. There is a chance that through confrontation with serious disaster, a greater understanding of life, a perspective on wealth, and a shakeup of all that is entrenched, it will allow the people to change the government for the better. Perhaps, finally, they will throw off the chains of socialism we put on them after the war.

Why can a theory work one way and not another. I think it has to do with whether men meddle in it or not. Natural events seem to come, and men simply pick up or die. When men cause the disasters, they often already have a political and economic plan devised around it. And the plans of men are foolish and ignorant, idealistic and unscientific (in the real not academic sense of science, mind you). No, men cannot devise a means of breaking windows in such a way in which a nation may truly profit. But nature seems to have a way. Actually, survival in such cases means pushing politicians, bureaucrats and whole bureaucracies, laws, and other such to the side while figuring out how to simply survive. It lends strength to people who have been shackled and afraid. It shows them what there really is to fear. A fine or going without water? Try and fine me for surviving!

Most cases, hopefully, are not that extreme. But in many cases people will be fighting more minor incursions into their needs and wants by often petty and foolish laws, meant merely to help the peasants understand their place and create markers around what some elites think should be the boundaries of civilized life. I hope the Japanese do learn. I hope they do become strong. And I hope they realize that a socialist government is nothing but an impediment, and pushes it to the side to rise a stronger, rebuilt, forward moving nation and economy. Oh, and remove the "rights" (special set-asides for women to work, and vote). Well, good luck on those last, but if the nation rises, these things will happen.

Good night.