Green Economist

Unemployment report, part 1

2012-02-17T09:55:00.001-06:00

Some good economic news for January: the unemployment rate dropped to 8.3%, with 243,000 net jobs in January. Good start for 2012!

Unemployment report, part 12

2012-01-06T10:15:00.003-06:00

Some good economic news: a December drop in the unemployment rate to 8.5%, the lowest level in 2011. The economy added 200,000 jobs. Obama must be happy.

Here are the month-by-month totals for 2011:

December 8.5%
November 8.6%
October 9.0%
September 9.1%
August 9.1%
July 9.1%
June 9.2%
May 9.1%
April 9.0%
March 8.8%
February 8.9%
January 9.0%

Unemployment report, part 11

2011-12-02T10:46:00.001-06:00

Is there hope? The unemployment rate for November dropped to 8.6%, the largest monthly decrease for 2011.

Here are the monthly unemployment rates for 2011:

November 8.6%
October 9.0%
September 9.1%
August 9.1%
July 9.1%
June 9.2%
May 9.1%
April 9.0%
March 8.8%
February 8.9%
January 9.0%

Environmental Economics Blog Post 14

2011-12-02T10:41:00.001-06:00

In Environmental Economics we look for connections between economic activity and environmental quality. Often there is conflict between the two. One example is the need for irrigation for agriculture, important to regional economies throughout the midwest. As water sources run low, the ability to undertake conventional farming practices is compromised. Read this new article on the topic. What is your reaction to the article?

(Blog comment 14 is due Tuesday, December 6.)

Environmental Economics Blog Post 13

2011-11-18T11:34:00.001-06:00

In recent weeks in Environmental Economics we've discussed the trends of population growth, climate change, urbanization and food production. Over the course of the next few decades, how will these trends come together to create a new global economic reality? (The hyper-linked articles and sites provide some context and perspective.)

(Blog comment 13 is due, Tuesday, November 29.)

Unemployment report, part 10

2011-11-16T14:05:00.001-06:00

The unemployment rate for October fell to 9%. We're back to where we were in January. Here are the monthly totals for 2011:

October 9.0%
September 9.1%
August 9.1%
July 9.1%
June 9.2%
May 9.1%
April 9.0%
March 8.8%
February 8.9%
January 9.0%

Environmental economics blog post 12

2011-11-08T14:26:00.001-06:00

To return to a previous topic, a new story is out on the Keystone XL pipeline. After reading the article, what do you think?

(Blog comment 12 is due Tuesday, November 15.)

Environmental Economics Blog Post 11

2011-11-03T10:07:00.000-05:00

After discussing food systems in class, including industrial agriculture, industrial organic and local food economies, it's clear the overall process is far from perfect. While industrial agriculture provides enough food for people in the developed world, the world now has 7 billion people, and most of the upcoming growth in population will occur in the developing world. In the developing world, malnutrition and food insecurity remain. In addition, the process of industrial agriculture has not helped to reduce negative externalities such as obesity, diabetes and other health-related problems. How must societies learn to balance the necessities of economic vitality, environmental quality, and food security? That is, how can industrial nations achieve food security, minimize environmental degradation, and create vibrant economies?

(Blog comment 11 is due Tuesday, Nov. 8.)

Environmental Economics Blog Post 10

2011-10-27T12:09:00.000-05:00

This week in Environmental Economics we're discussing the growth of local food systems. These systems not only contribute to the vitality of local economies, but they help to build community, too. Local food systems are characterized by high levels of labor intensity, connection between producer and consumer, and a lack of reliance on fossil fuels. Examples of outlets for local food systems are community-supported-agriculture programs, farmers markets, local food stores, food co-ops, and backyard gardens. Provide an example of a situation in which you've participated in a local food economy. Let's have the details!

(Blog comment 10 is due Tuesday, November 1.)

Environmental Economics Blog Post 9

2011-10-18T11:13:00.000-05:00

This week's discussion about agriculture highlights the intersection of economics, politics and policy. In additional to productivity, one aspect that characterizes the U.S. system of agriculture is subsidies. Money flows from the federal government to individual farmers, for the large-scale production of corn, soybeans, and other crops. A timely article from today's New York Times addresses this issue. What do you think about the article?

(Blog comment 9 is due Tuesday, October 25.)

Environmental Economics Blog Post 8

2011-10-11T14:40:00.000-05:00

This week we discussed the optimal rate of extraction for renewable resources. This topic is important because, for many ecosystems, the rate of resource extraction exceeds the growth rate. This leads to an unsustainable reality.

What ecosystem do you think is particularly vulnerable? Why?

(Blog comment 8 is due on Tuesday, October 18.)

Unemployment report, part 9

2011-10-07T13:47:00.001-05:00

The unemployment rate remained constant in September at 9.1%. Adding 103,000 jobs, the economy is not weakening, but also not showing much sign of life.

Here are the unemployment rates by month for 2011:
September 9.1%
August 9.1%
July 9.1%
June 9.2%
May 9.1%
April 9.0%
March 8.8%
February 8.9%
January 9.0%

Not much difference now from the beginning of the year!

Environmental Economics Blog Post 7

2011-10-06T15:12:00.001-05:00

What is your impression of Thomas Friedman's article "The Earth is Full" in the New York Times from June 7, 2011?

(Blog comment 7 is due Tuesday, October 11.)

Good article on the Canada/US oil pipeline

2011-10-03T13:14:00.000-05:00

Seems there are lobbyists involved: article. Surprising?

Environmental Economics Blog Comment 6

2011-09-30T10:06:00.000-05:00

The DVD that we watched in class on the "Population Paradox" demonstrates how population growth in developing countries differs from de-population in most developed countries in the world. These different trends lead to competing visions of the future. An optimistic vision includes slowing population growth, sustainable development, and the availability of natural resources. A pessimistic vision of the future includes rapid population growth overwhelming the earth's capacity to provide resources, depletion of basic energy resources, runaway climate change, and global discord. Which vision to you think is more accurate?

(Blog comment 6 is due Tuesday, October 4.)

Environmental Economics Blog Post 5

2011-09-23T15:24:00.000-05:00

Do you agree with the article "Pain at the Pump? We Need More"
that the price of gasoline should be higher?

(Blog comment 5 is due Tuesday, September 27.)

Environmental Economics Blog Post 4

2011-09-16T09:55:00.002-05:00

The last two weeks in Environmental Economics we've discussed the cost/benefit framework for evaluating environmental projects and policies. On the cost side, in addition to the costs of economic resources and maintenance, why is it important to include any external costs that may result? Examples?

(Blog comment 4 is due Tuesday, September 20.)

Environmental Economics Blog Post 3

2011-09-09T11:02:00.002-05:00

For new projects that have environmental implications, it is important to undertake a cost-benefit analysis. While the measurement of the economic value of benefits is straight-forward in the presence of a demand curve and market prices, valuation methods are necessary in the absence of market prices. On the cost side, it's important to not only consider resource and maintenance costs, but any external costs that may result from the implementation of the project. The first paper assignment is to evaluate one of two projects: a water pipeline from the Great Lakes to the south-west of the United States or an oil pipeline from Canada to the Gulf of Mexico. Before you do the specific research and writing, what do you feel will be the most important issues to consider for the pipeline project that you are going to choose?

(Blog comment 3 is due Tuesday, September 13.)

Environmental Economics Blog Post 2

2011-09-02T10:18:00.003-05:00

In week 2 in Environmental Economics we discussed the reality that certain market failures pervasive in a free-market economy, such as negative externalities, cause social cost to differ from private cost. The result is that, for certain expenditures that households make, such as for energy, the price is too low; that is, in the presence of a negative externality, price does not reflect the marginal external cost imposed on society as a whole. With our energy choices, examples of externalities include shorter lives, higher health care expenses, a changing climate and compromised national security. (See "The True Cost of Carbon," Economix, May 18, 2011.) In our society, with a growing understanding of the environmental consequences of our actions, why do negative externalities such as those listed in the article persist?

(Blog comment 2 is due Tuesday, September 6.)

Unemployment report, part 8

2011-09-02T10:16:00.000-05:00

Bad news on the domestic job front: in August the U.S. economy added zero net jobs. The unemployment remained at 9.1%.

The 2011 month-by-month unemployment rates:
August 9.1%
July 9.1%
June 9.2%
May 9.1%
April 9.0%
March 8.8%
February 8.9%
January 9.0%

Environmental Economics Blog Post 1

2011-08-26T08:12:00.002-05:00

This week in Environmental Economics we discussed the necessary balance between economic vitality and ecological integrity. For a sustainable future, a balance is necessary between economic, environmental and social systems. The article "(No) Drill, Baby, Drill," by Thomas Friedman (New York Times, 12 April 2009) provides a nice example of a conscious choice to create a sustainable future. Concerning the article and what we discussed this week, why do you feel an economics/environment balance is necessary?

(Blog comment 1 is due Tuesday, August 30.)

Greetings!

2011-08-22T13:40:00.001-05:00

Welcome to a new semester! While our classes are starting, global, regional and local environmental challenges remain. In environmental economics, we're going address many of them, including population, climate change, environmental security, sustainability, food systems, and many more. I hope to create a course environment that encourages participation and discussion, as an active academic setting is more fruitful for everyone. Here's to a new semester!

Unemployment report, part 7

2011-08-12T16:05:00.001-05:00

In July, a decrease in the unemployment rate to 9.1%:

Month-by-month rates:

July 9.1%
June 9.2%
May 9.1%
April 9.0%
March 8.8%
February 8.9%
January 9.0%

Unemployment report, part 6

2011-07-08T14:53:00.002-05:00

Bad news on the employment front. Today's announcement of the growth in jobs shows that the economy continues to sputter. While the economy needs to add 150,000 jobs a month to keep up with population growth, in June the economy added 18,000 jobs. The unemployment rate went up to 9.2%

Here are the unemployment rates by month for 2011, a grim picture:

June 9.2%
May 9.1%
April 9.0%
March 8.8%
February 8.9%
January 9.0%

Unemployment report, part 5

2011-06-11T10:35:00.001-05:00

The unemployment rate for May rose to 9.1%, bad news for Obama.

The rates by month in 2011:

May 9.1%
April 9.0%
March 8.8%
February 8.9%
January 9.0%

Cadaques

2011-06-08T14:33:00.003-05:00

This week we're staying in Cadaques, a small town on the easternmost point in Spain, on the Mediterranean Sea. In thinking about the beauty of the area (picture), it's clear that the local economy relies on tourism, which means everyone who comes must burn fossil fuels (including us). Also, this town lies on the other side of a mountain from the surrounding area, so almost 100% of the resources consumed must be trucked in (food, fuel, etc.). It's a high-energy reality, but the locals who are employed because of tourism want more people to visit, and a more stable system of resource distribution. Thinking about the use of natural resources, population growth, and the demand for energy on a global scale, the reality is that the world is going to face some tough decisions over the next few decades. Tom Friedman explains the challenges well in an article today. Check it out.

Palafrugell es organic!

2011-06-03T16:41:00.004-05:00

Here in Calalla de Parafrugel, in the Costa Brava region of Spain north of Barcelona, it's beautiful. Where we're staying, the coastal path along the Mediterranean Sea goes for miles in each direction. It's a small village, but there's great environmental awareness, with compost bins all over the place (brown containers) and recycling (yellow). Simple steps go a long way!

Happy summer break!

Costa Brava

2011-06-02T16:02:00.004-05:00

Estamos en Costa Brava, Spain, el norte de Barcelona. Costa Brava es fantastico, especialmente la comida--paella, pasta, pescada--el sol, y el Mediterranean (la foto). Buenos dias!

Bittman on meat

2011-06-02T16:00:00.002-05:00

A good article by Mark Bittman on the eating of meat. The foodies should like this one.

Backyard garden

2011-05-26T13:36:00.003-05:00

The backyard garden's doing great, thriving with this recent rain. What we've planted so far:
Carrots
Lettuce
Spinach
Peas
Tomatoes
Peppers
Eggplant

The strawberries, raspberries, cherries, and (new) plums will appear soon.

Check out the pictures: the bland picture on top from the beginning of March and the same spot in May.

Happy eating!

Unemployment report, part 4

2011-05-12T12:57:00.000-05:00

In April the unemployment rate rose to 9.0%. Here's the month-by-month rates for 2011:

April 9.0%
March 8.8%
February 8.9%
January 9.0%

GH 302 Blog Post 15: Final Observations

2011-05-07T13:58:00.003-05:00

Great work this semester in the Economics of Sustainable Food class! The speakers, discussions, and analysis have been outstanding. To wrap things up, reflect on the semester's topics. Two questions. What stands out most for you? After taking this class, do you feel that we have an obligation to spread the word about local food?

(Blog comment 15 is due Thursday, May 12.)

GH 302 Blog Post 14: Food Co-ops

2011-04-29T08:49:00.003-05:00

On Thursday night in our Economics of Sustainable Food class Dr. Gordon Rands spoke of the role of food co-ops in local food economies. He explained the purposes of food co-ops: voluntary work, member owned/controlled, triple bottom line, open to anyone, in the community, reflects values of members, and displays the interests of customers/owners--who are the same people. In addition, according to Dr. Rands, an important part of a food co-op is to educate customers. Considering that food co-ops may potentially increase access to local food, build awareness, increase demand, facilitate innovation, encourage new local producers, and build community, do you feel food co-ops are important parts of local food economies? What role do you think students could play in a local food co-op?

(Blog comment 14 is due Thursday, May 5.)

Econ 100 Blog Post 14: Smart phones and our lives

2011-04-28T14:37:00.002-05:00

Using people's cellphones, researchers can track the movements and activities of people around the world. Check out this article from The Wall Street Journal. Is this trend scary?

(Blog comment 14, our last one of the semester, is due Tuesday, May 3.)

Econ 100 Blog Post 13: National debt

2011-04-22T11:43:00.003-05:00

The U.S. national debt exceeds $14 trillion and is almost 100% of the annual size of the economy, a troubling reality. As long as the U.S. can continue borrowing at market interest rates, and the world continues to lend, the government will continue running yearly deficits. And the debt will rise. Should we be troubled by the fact that the U.S. government relies on investors from around the world to finance its expenditures? Or is the credibility of the federal government of the United States strong enough to continue the borrowing trend? (The graphic of the rise of U.S. government debt is from FutureTimeline.net.)

(Blog comment 13 is due Tuesday, April 26.)

GH 302 Blog Post 13: Environmental costs of shipping food

2011-04-22T11:17:00.002-05:00

The economic theory of comparative advantage teaches us that countries specialize in and trade products that they can produce at a lower domestic opportunity cost. This means countries that can give up relatively fewer resources to make or harvest something have an economic rationale to do so. But what about when shipping food around the world leads to pollution? A country may have comparative advantage (think bananas from Ecuador), but environmental costs may result from the exporting of the item. An article from The New York Times explains this global trend. It's fascinating. What should we take from the reality of the global environmental costs of shipping food around the world from the article, especially when food in many of the examples can be produced locally and sold in local markets?

(Blog comment 13 is due Thursday, April 28.)

Econ 100 Blog Post 12: Texting and oblivious

2011-04-18T09:55:00.002-05:00

An excellent article in The New York Times addresses the recent sociological phenomenon: obsession with electronic connection. We know the story well: given the opportunity, texting is the norm, whether in line, in social gatherings, or other situations. We've talked in class about the potential of technology interrupting our ability to interact with others. After reading the article, comment on whether technology--particularly texting--is hurting our social skills.

GH 302 Blog Post 12: Food, budgets and health

2011-04-18T09:43:00.004-05:00

Mark Bittman of The New York Times has a compelling article that concerns the country's budgetary problems and food. Epidemics like obesity and diabetes cost the country hundreds of billions of dollars, but lifestyle and eating habits address these problems directly. Bittman argues that a healthier diet, and the reduction of industrial food, could save the country billions of dollars in health-related costs. For example, a diet rich in local, non-processed food eliminates most consumption of sugar and high-fructose corn syrup, ingredients that one author, Gary Taubes, writing in The New York Times Magazine, in a Sunday article, calls "toxic." After reading Bittman's article, explain how food production links to society's health problems and why better eating would save the country's billions of dollars.

10,000 and Counting!

2011-04-13T11:23:00.003-05:00

I'm pleased the Green Economy blog passed the 10,000 hit mark! It's been a great experience blogging the last few years.

I intend to keep it up for a long time.

Keep the responses coming!

Econ 100 Blog Post 11: Parks and rec

2011-04-10T19:07:00.004-05:00

We argued in class last week that, if we are to have public goods, government must provide them. If we take public parks as a general example, and Chicago's lakefront parks specifically, it's interesting to look at difficult budgetary times. When local governments have large budget deficits, like exists with many cities now--including Chicago--should local governments continue to allocate money to preserve public spaces? Why or why not? Keep in mind that allocating resource for public parks takes the same resources away from other public services.

(Blog comment 11 is due Tuesday, April 12.)

GH 302 Blog Post 11: Fresh eggs

2011-04-10T18:56:00.003-05:00

Last Thursday night in the Economics of Sustainable Food class Ann Runner discussed both the necessity of educating young students about sustainable and local food and the challenges of running a farm. Concerning her talk, from the perspective of the individual, do you think the benefits of raising meat and dairy, on a relatively small scale, are worth the effort in time and energy? For society, is the model of individuals having full time jobs away from the farm, while farming on a smaller scale, the model of the future?

(Blog comment 11 is due Thursday, April 14.)

Funny Local Food Comic

2011-04-04T11:42:00.000-05:00

Slowpoke Comics

Unemployment report, part 3

2011-04-01T10:17:00.003-05:00

The latest employment numbers are strong: in March the unemployment rate fell to 8.8%.

Here are the unemployment rates so far for 2011:

March 8.8%
February 8.9%
January 9.0%

Over time we'll look to see if this momentum of job creation continues.

Econ 100 Blog Post 10: Macroeconomics

2011-04-01T10:07:00.003-05:00

In Econ 100 this week we discussed macroeconomic terms and concepts. Of the three macroeconomics goals of the economy--price level stability, economic growth, and full employment--which is the most important to address right now? Why?

(Blog comment 10 is due Tuesday, April 5.)

GH 302 Blog Post 10: Local food movement

2011-04-01T09:50:00.003-05:00

Last night in our Economics of Sustainable Food class, Dan Barclay discussed food and activism in Macomb. As he made clear, there are many aspects of the local food movement that are growing in importance, including local food dinners, CSAs, the farmers' market, the identification of local food producers, and potential for a local food co-op. Activism, it seems, can still lead to positive results. It may be the case that the most activist individuals in the area are working to establish better local food options. Concerning last night, what issue do you relate to the most?

(Blog comment 10 is due Thursday, April 7.)

Econ 100 Blog Post 9: Poverty

2011-03-28T08:34:00.001-05:00

In Econ 100 last week we discussed the economics of poverty, a problem that persists in the U.S. A recent article by Bob Herbert in the Times addresses the problem of education, when students live in poverty conditions. Read the article and, with the framework from class, comment on Herbert's thesis.

Blog comment 9 is due Tuesday, March 29.

GH 302 Blog Post 9: Food and health

2011-03-25T10:05:00.004-05:00

Last night in our Economics of Sustainable Food class John Curtis and Penny Kelsey made an important case for local food production: not only does our region claim appropriate conditions for the growing of dozens of varieties of vegetables and fruit, the agricultural tradition in the midwest dates centuries in the past. A recent blog post by Mark Bittman in the Times provides a number of links for important food issues. In particular, read the link to "How Western Diets are Making the World Sick," and respond to the premise of the post.

(Blog comment 8 is due Thursday, March 31.)

Econ 100 Blog Post 8: College party time?

2011-03-18T11:10:00.002-05:00

In a provocative column in The New York Times, Bob Herbert writes that many college students enter the academic environment not prepared for college-level work. In fact, in the column, he writes, "Students are hitting the books less and partying more."

After reading the column, what is your reaction?

(Blog comment 8 is due Tuesday, March 22. Provide your response first online and then bring a copy to class.)

GH 302 Blog Post 8: The best food topic

2011-03-11T08:54:00.003-06:00

Excellent presentations last night! The presentations were extremely academic and informative. The blog post of the week concerns the half-way point in the semester. So far, we've covered a lot of material, including the rhetoric of sustainability; bridges to sustainable outcomes; food and anthropology; the morality of eating meat; food, feminism and cooking; local food dinners; the value of local food; grass farming; and many other topics. So far, considering these concepts, the ideas from the readings, and the other material we've addressed in class, what concept has been most important/revealing/interesting to you?

Blog comment 8 is due Thursday, March 24. Have a great spring break!

Econ 100 Blog Post 7: Education and Television

2011-03-04T12:28:00.002-06:00

This week in Econ 100 we discussed the Economics of Education. Our Thursday reading assignment in Freakonomics addressed whether parents have an impact on student performance. One result from the study in the book is that television watching does not impact student performance. Keep in mind, however, that this result is from one study; other studies have different conclusions. Based on your personal experiences, do you think excessive television watching is detrimental to student performance? Why or why not?

(Blog comment 7 is due Tuesday, March 8.)

GH 302 Blog Post 7: The Case for Grass-Fed Beef

2011-03-04T11:56:00.003-06:00

In class on Thursday night Kristy Boggs made the case for grass-fed beef. She argued that, as compared to grain-fed beef, the grass-fed alternative is healthier for humans to eat and offers a natural environment for the cows. What is your reaction to her argument? Are you convinced to the point where you will seek grass-fed beef, when you are in the marketplace?

(Blog comment 7 is due Thursday, March 10.)

Unemployment report, part 2

2011-03-04T08:55:00.002-06:00

The latest news on jobs is out and the news is good.

In February, employers in the U.S. added 192,000 jobs. The unemployment rate fell from 9.0% in January to 8.9% in February.

If this effect continues, we might observe a much stronger economy in terms of job creation by summertime.

Unemployment rates for 2011:

February 8.9%
January 9.0%

I'll keep track of the monthly numbers for the rest of the year.

Econ 100 Blog Post 6: More education or prisons?

2011-02-25T10:07:00.002-06:00

When considering the economics of crime, an important debate concerns resource allocation. Lowering the reward from crime requires the allocation of more resources for education. Increasing the risk from crime requires the allocation of more resources for prisons. To decrease crime, which option should society choose, more education or prisons?

(Blog comment 6 is due Tuesday, Mar. 1.)

GH 302 Blog Post 6: Why value local food?

2011-02-25T09:34:00.003-06:00

In class on Thursday night Karen Mauldin-Curtis and Betsy Perabo spoke of the value of local food. They argued that there are health, community, and civic benefits to decentralized food systems. They also made the case that there are generational benefits to local food, as parents pass on to children the knowledge of planting, harvesting, and cooking food and the importance of preserving the natural environment. Concerning these and other benefits you may identify, which are most important? That is, is it most important that local food systems generate satisfying food options, or are the other benefits, including health, community, civic, and generational, as important?

(Blog comment 6 is due Thursday, March 3.)

Econ 100 Blog Post 5: Legalization?

2011-02-18T10:12:00.002-06:00

The debate over the legalization of marijuana continues. From class it's clear the proponents and opponents have well-tested arguments.

Where do you stand? That is, should a national policy of legalization take place? Use economic analysis to argue your case.

(Blog comment 5 is due Tuesday, Feb. 22.)

GH 302 Blog Post 5: Local food and community building

2011-02-18T09:32:00.003-06:00

On Thursday night Vajo Necak and Dan Murphy discussed two important topics for local food systems: local food dinners and the building of community.

With the local food dinners, Vajo and Dan rounded up locally-sourced ingredients, including vegetables, eggs, wheat, beef, and others, organized a cooking process to provide food for 100 people, advertised, and provided successful meals, on two occasions. They raised awareness about the possibilities of a local food system in Macomb.

But they alluded to a bigger, perhaps more important reality: food may serve as a driver for building community. Gathering around a dinner table is the oldest reason of getting together. Meeting new people, catching up with friends, and enjoying social time are a few reasons why food may serve as a tool for community building.

The question of interest in our sustainable food class concerns this reality: why does food serve as such an effective way to build community?

(Blog comment is due Thursday, February 24.)

Econ 100 Blog Post 4: Course load for life

2011-02-11T11:12:00.002-06:00

I used this blog post last semester. It's still relevant:

College life should entail many things.

Obvious areas of focus are educational attainment and socialization. Concerning a solid education, each student should make sure to take a variety of courses that enhance basic skills, including reading, writing, problem solving, public speaking and quantitative analysis. Students should also take courses that interest them.

N. Gregory Mankiw, a well-known and highly accomplished economist at Harvard, has an excellent article in the Times, from Sunday, Sept. 5, 2010 in the Economic View space.

He gives some advice for current students, who may face a rough economy, when they graduate. He suggest learning economics (no surprise!), statistics, finance and psychology.

Read Mankiw's article and explain whether you feel his analysis is convincing. Given that you are already taking Intro. to Econ., what other fields do you feel are important?

(Blog comment 4 is due Tuesday, February 15. First post your comment on-line, print it, and bring it to class.)

GH 302 Blog Post 4: Cooking and local food

2011-02-11T10:54:00.003-06:00

On Thursday night in GH 302 Dr. Holly Stovall made the case that, for thriving local food systems, cooking is crucial. While both local food production and procurement are important, we cannot enjoy the benefits of local food without preparing food and cooking it. The problem from society's perspective is we've lost a lot of this knowledge of healthy meals and local ingredients. We need to regain this knowledge base and put it to use.

In your view, what is the importance of cooking in the model of local food systems? How do we regain the knowledge necessary to implement this important step?

(Blog comment 4 is due Thursday, February 17.)

Unemployment report, part 1

2011-02-04T10:41:00.003-06:00

On this blog I like to keep track of the unemployment rate, a key measure of the health of the macroeconomy.

In January, the unemployment rate decreased from 9.4% to 9.0%, a large change.

Why is this important? As a news article states, "The unemployment rate is sinking at the fastest pace in half a century." In addition, half a million more people found jobs in January.

As I've done for 2010 and 2009, I'll keep track of the monthly unemployment rates for 2011.

Econ 100 Blog Post 3: Spam!

2011-02-04T09:00:00.004-06:00

In Thursday's class we discussed demand-side shift variables. These are applications of market realities. One such entertaining reality concerns terminology we discussed Thursday. Read the accompanying article, which discusses the relationship between demand and the state of the economy, and address the following questions: concerning the article, what kind of good is Spam and when does it become popular? Why?

(Blog comment 3 is due Tuesday, February 8. Post your comment online, print it, and bring it to class.)

GH 302 Blog Post 3: The morality of local meat

2011-02-04T08:34:00.003-06:00

On Thursday night Dr. Brian Powell discussed the moral implications of eating industrial meat. Because, according to Dr. Powell, industrial meat (a) inflicts suffering on animals, (b) degrades the environment, (c) makes it more difficult to feed everyone and pollutes the water supply, and (d) produces greenhouse gases, it is "wrong to buy factory farmed beef."

Any way you look at the issue, he makes a compelling argument, from a moral standpoint.

What about local meat? Presumably, local beef, pork and chicken come from more sustainable production methods.

Here's the question: given Dr. Powell's moral framework, do you believe it is morally acceptable or unacceptable to eat local meat? Why?

(Blog comment 3 is due Thursday, February 10. Post your comment online and come ready to discuss it in class. Be sure to include your name or initials with your comment, so it's possible to record your credit for the assignment.)

GH 302 Blog Post 2: Definition of sustainable food

2011-01-28T09:27:00.003-06:00

For blog comment 1 a number of important components of a working definition of sustainable food were mentioned.

The list includes the following:

No chemicals
Community growth
Safe
Local production
Grown in good conditions
Health of the land
Health of the consumer
Health of animals
Healthy soil
Preserve and improve the environment
Value future generations
Natural growth process

For blog comment 2, we need a definition of "sustainable food." Using the definition, we will evaluate whether different food chains (industrial agriculture, industrial organic, local) are sustainable.

Here's the assignment: in one, two, or a few sentences, define "sustainable food."

(Post blog comment 2 on-line by the beginning of our next class on Thursday, February 3.)

Econ 100 Blog Post 2: Freshman Stress

2011-01-27T13:13:00.003-06:00

The First Year Experience for college freshmen is important in helping to determine success during a student's entire college career. The students who establish connections with their university environment early on in their first year often feel more connected and assimilated, which helps students achieve academically and feel more content.

A recent article in the New York Times, however, reports the following:

"The emotional health of college freshmen...has declined to the lowest level since an annual survey of incoming students started collecting data 25 years ago."

As stated in the article, possible reasons include the weak state of the economy, college debt, job prospects, and other reasons.

The article also states that student "ratings of their own drive to achieve...have been going up..."

After reading the article, post your reaction to the following question: for college freshmen, does the benefit of a greater desire to succeed academically--as discussed in the article--offset the possibility of a lower level of emotional health?

(Blog comment 2 is due Tuesday, February 1. Post your comment on-line before class on Tuesday, print your comment, and bring it to class.)

GH 302 Blog Post 1: Sustainable Food

2011-01-21T09:31:00.003-06:00

In our fascinating class on Thursday night Professors Mossman and Knox discussed the rhetoric and challenges of a sustainable food system. Concerning sustainable food systems, it's clear from their presentations that the challenges are many, but the rewards are high. While most food in our country is provided by industrial agriculture--mechanization, economies of scale, fossil fuel requirements--many people desire sustainable alternatives.

We need to develop a working definition of "sustainable food." Considering what we discussed in Thursday's class, what do you think are the most important components of a working definition of "sustainable food"? Why?

(Blog comment 1 is due Thursday, Jan. 27. Post your comment online to use for discussion in the next class.)

Econ 100 Blog Post 1: Economics and education

2011-01-20T08:19:00.004-06:00

This initial blog post for the spring semester emphasizes the important link between economic vitality and education. Specifically, for the country as a whole, the higher the level of educational attainment, the more the country is prepared for an evolving global economy. For the individual, the ability to learn how to learn, achieved through secondary and higher education, allows a greater possibility to achieve lifetime employment, even if that entails several jobs in different fields. We mentioned in class on Tuesday that students with college degrees expect to earn hundreds of thousands of dollars more throughout their lifetimes than students with high school degrees.

Specific skills for students to develop before working include written communication, critical thinking, and analytical reasoning.

However, as a recent blog post from The Choice, a blog of The New York Times on education, makes clear that many students across the U.S. are not getting these skills during the first two years of college.

What is wrong? Do you think it's personal motivation, with students not pushing themselves to learn the skills necessary for the workforce. Or is it the system, where colleges and universities are not preparing students well enough?

(Blog comment 1 is due Tuesday, January 25. Print a copy of your comment and bring it to class.)

Greetings!

2011-01-18T12:32:00.002-06:00

Welcome to a new semester! This semester we're going to address some fascinating issues and controversies.

In the Introduction to Economics course, we're going to debate different sides of important socio-economic problems of the day. In doing so, we'll be able to see that the world is a complicated place, and sometimes providing the right incentives will create the best outcome.

In the Sustainable Food course, we're going to address many fascinating topics, including why we produce so much output in the midwest and hardly eat any of it. How does this make sense?

I look forward to a great semester and reading all of your comments!

Unemployment report, part 12

2011-01-07T09:36:00.002-06:00

December's unemployment numbers are out: the unemployment rate fell from 9.8% in November to 9.4% in December. This is certainly good news. However, as today's announcement makes clear, the labor force declined by 260,000, as this number of people stopped looking for jobs.

Now we have the month-by-month unemployment rates for 2010:

December 9.4%
November 9.8%
October 9.6%
September 9.6%
August 9.6%
July 9.5%
June 9.5%
May 9.7%
April 9.9%
March 9.7%
February 9.7%
January 9.7%

Let's compare to 2009:

December 10%
November 10%
October 10.2%
September 9.8%
August 9.7%
July 9.4%
June 9.5%
May 9.4%
April 8.9%
March 8.5%
February 8.1%
January 7.6%

From the data, we see the current unemployment rate is the lowest it's been since July of 2009, a positive sign. However, we have a long way to go to reach the unemployment rate in January of 2009: 7.6%

Unemployment report, part 11

2010-12-05T20:59:00.002-06:00

Bad news for the economic recovery: in November the unemployment rate rose to 9.8%, from 9.6%.

Economists were hoping the unemployment rate would fall by the end of the year. It's not going to happen.

The rate is slightly higher than it was at the beginning of the year, a disappointing reality.

Here's the unemployment rate by month, for 2010:

November 9.8%
October 9.6%
September 9.6%
August 9.6%
July 9.5%
June 9.5%
May 9.7%
April 9.9%
March 9.7%
February 9.7%
January 9.7%

Econ 100 Blog Post 14: Wired for distraction

2010-12-01T09:44:00.003-06:00

An important factor influencing economic growth is technological innovation. Incorporating new technology into the production processes of firms constitutes a crucial method of staying competitive.

The individual, however, must weigh the positive aspects of technology against negative consequences. This semester we've considered a number of articles focusing on technology in our lives, including potential impacts on the brain, social networks, and the prevalence of digital devices.

A recent article in the Times explains that the younger generation of individuals who grow up connected through electronic devices are also "wired for distraction."

The question of interest concerns weighing the positive aspects of technology against the negative aspects. Do the benefits of always being connected (for consumer, social, and academic purposes) outweigh the costs of being constantly distracted by calls, texts, etc.? In your answer, consider your own habits.

(Blog comment 14, the last one!, is due Tuesday, December 7.)

Econ 170 Blog Post 14: China and the U.S.

2010-12-01T09:31:00.003-06:00

The Times article we read on Tuesday discussed China/U.S. relations.

A fascinating debate considers whether China or the U.S. will be the most influential and powerful country in the 21st century.

According to Martin Jacques in When China Rules the World (2009), China will be the most influential/important country in the 21st century. He cites economic growth, a large population, and increasing geopolitical influence as the reasons.

In "The Default Power," from Foreign Affairs (2009), Josef Joffe makes the case for the United States, arguing that current economic, political and military advantages will continue.

Considering these positions, which country do you think will be the most influential and powerful in the 21st century, China or the U.S.? Why?

(Blog comment 14, the last one!, is due Tuesday, December 7.)

Econ 465 Blog Post 14: Renewables and infrastructure

2010-11-30T11:00:00.003-06:00

A fascinating article in the Times over the weekend addresses the topic of energy infrastructure. In particular, solar technology is available at scale, but getting the power to households and businesses is another matter. After reading the article, answer the following question: in the debate over renewable energy, how important is it to consider the country's energy infrastructure?

(Blog comment 14, the last one!, is due Tuesday, December 7.)

Econ 170 Blog Post 13: Threats to the global economy: climate change

2010-11-18T09:35:00.003-06:00

Because of the global movement to capitalism, technological advance, business connectivity, and the networks of trade, finance, technology, information, and immigration, globalization continues as a force in the world today.

However, many roadblocks exist. Ill health, poverty, and environmental degradation are three. One problem serves as a clear threat to the global economy: climate change. Because of the increase of industrialization worldwide and a higher level of greenhouse gas emissions, particularly carbon dioxide, average global temperatures are rising. This is leading to ice melting, sea levels rising, more droughts in some areas, more rain in other areas, more severe weather, and other impacts. Economic disruption could occur on a large scale if human displacement results from the effects of climate change. If millions of coastline area people in a poor region of the world, for example, have to move, it could be difficult for the world to help.

We read an article in class about climate change, the melting of arctic ice, and disruption. Concerning the article and the threats to globalization, do you get the sense that the process of globalization is inevitable? Or are the threats big enough to disrupt globalization or bring it to an end?

(Blog comment 13 is due Tuesday, November 30. Have a great Thanksgiving break!)

Econ 100 Blog Post 13: Economics and a digital brain

2010-11-17T10:03:00.003-06:00

In class we read an article about snuggling with a cellphone; that is, keeping a cell phone close. The article explains the potential health hazards of holding a cellphone right against one's ear for extended periods of time. The specific concern is the impact of radiation on the brain. At this point, should we be concerned about this research? If people take the research seriously, what would be the economic impacts in the market?

(Blog comment 13 is due Tuesday, November 30. Have a great Thanksgiving break!)

Econ 465 Blog Post 13: Saved by the sun

2010-11-16T11:35:00.003-06:00

The DVD "Solar Energy: Saved by the Sun" makes the case for an increased level of solar power. What are the factors involved in the process of moving to a greater reliance on solar power? How viable is solar power as an energy source?

(Blog comment 13 is due Tuesday, November 30. Have a great Thanksgiving break!)

Econ 100 Blog Post 12: Last Lecture

2010-11-11T10:00:00.002-06:00

In class we discussed the book The Last Lecture. What topic do you feel is most important to emphasize at this time? Why?

(Blog comment 12 is due Tuesday, November 16.)

Econ 170 Blog Post 12: The Smiley Curve

2010-11-11T09:45:00.003-06:00

In class we read an article about the Smiley Curve, which links value added to the stages of production. In the light of the fact that the manufacturing stage does not entail a high value added step, how should we view outsourcing and offshoring for the purpose of manufacturing, especially from a developed country perspective?

(Blog comment 12 is due Tuesday, November 16.)

Econ 465 Blog Post 12: Cost of green power

2010-11-10T10:02:00.002-06:00

In class we discussed the reality of the cost of green power. Read the article I mentioned in class and provide your impressions.

(Blog comment 12 is due Tuesday, November 16.)

Unemployment report, part 10

2010-11-08T14:59:00.001-06:00

The October unemployment numbers are out: the unemployment rate is 9.6%.

Here are the rates by month for 2010:

October 9.6%
September 9.7%
August 9.6%
July 9.5%
June 9.5%
May 9.7%
April 9.9%
March 9.7%
February 9.7%
January 9.7%

Econ 170 Blog Post 11: Should individuals fear globalization?

2010-11-04T11:36:00.003-05:00

Largely as a result of The World Is Flat, some people in the United States fear globalization, because of the global realities of outsourcing and offshoring.

The impact of globalization on individuals--in developed countries--depends on how individuals take advantage (or not) of the opportunities the global economy presents.

Considering the fact that global pressures alter the kinds of economic opportunities available (less manufacturing jobs, more localized and specialized jobs) , should we fear globalization? How should individuals in the United States prepare for the future?

(Blog comment 11 is due Tuesday, November 9.)

Econ 100 Blog Post 11: Network revolution

2010-11-04T11:22:00.003-05:00

This past weekend I saw the movie Social Networ k, and I give it a high rating. While the story was certainly dramatized for Hollywood--Zuckerberg's inability to hold friendships and relationships come to mind--it makes clear, in an entertaining way, how Facebook revolutionized the idea of networks. In the movie I particularly liked the change from the east coast to the west coast, when Facebook took off.

Concerning recent technological advances--Facebook, YouTube, iPad--how would you interpret their importance, in terms of society as a whole? Are these innovations transformational?

(Blog comment 11 is due Tuesday, November 9.)

Econ 465 Blog Post 11: Carbon Nation

2010-11-03T09:26:00.002-05:00

This week we watched the DVD Carbon Nation. Is "carbon nation" an accurate description of the U.S.? Did the movie make a convincing case for renewable energy sources?

(Blog comment 11 is due Tuesday, November 9.)

Econ 100 Blog Post 10: Legalization, Again!

2010-10-28T10:20:00.002-05:00

Check out Nicholas Kristof's article in today's Times. Given the economics we've studied, does Kristof have a convincing argument? Explain!

(Blog comment 10 is due Tuesday, November 2.)

Econ 170 Blog Post 10: Gaming and the global economy

2010-10-28T10:15:00.003-05:00

This week in The Global Economic Environment we read an article about gaming and the global economy. Considering the article, what conclusions do you have about business and the global economy, particularly with respect to technology and the Internet?

(Blog comment 10 is due Tuesday, November 2.)

Econ 465 Blog Post 10: Carbon taxation or cap-and-trade?

2010-10-27T10:31:00.003-05:00

To provide incentive for the reduction of CO2 emissions, two incentive policies serve as options:

A debate exists concerning which policy is more appropriate for the U.S.

Based on the objectives of public policy we've identified in class--improvement in environmental quality, ease of administration, compliance, distributional consequences, and political feasibility--which environmental policy makes more sense for the U.S., carbon taxation or cap-and-trade? Why?

(Blog comment 10 is due Tuesday, November 2).

Econ 465 Blog Post 9: Should the U.S. implement a carbon tax?

2010-10-21T10:36:00.003-05:00

Carbon taxation, establishing a per-unit price on the carbon content of fuel, is widely used throughout the world, but not in the United States.

Much has been written about this policy.

For efficiency reasons, carbon taxes make sense. They establish a market price for the marginal external cost of carbon dioxide emissions and thus internalize the negative externality in the market process.

Gregory Mankiw, a well-regarded economist at Harvard, and former adviser to President George W. Bush, wrote an article explaining the merits of a carbon tax in the United States.

In the article, he makes a convincing case for the policy.

Do you agree with Mankiw that the U.S. should implement a carbon tax, especially if policy makers recycle the revenue, and reduce the rates on other taxes? Or is "political feasibility" a permanent roadblock to this form of environmental policy?

(Blog comment 9 is due Tuesday, October 26.)

Econ 100 Blog Post 9: Digital devices and the brain

2010-10-21T10:23:00.004-05:00

Technological advance pervades our lives, and certainly serves as an unequivocally important variable in the economy.

However, how does the existence of technology, the ability to stay "connected," and the reality of multi-tasking impact our ability to function?

A recent article explains that too much use of digital devices deprives the brain of needed downtime.

How should we use the information from this article? Do we need to be careful how we use technology? Is technology always beneficial?

Read the article and write your opinion.

(Blog comment 9 is due Tuesday, October 26.)

Econ 170 Blog Post 9: Energy and economic development

2010-10-20T10:06:00.002-05:00

In our Global Economic Environment course, we discuss the important components of economic development, including health, education, infrastructure, political stability and economic growth.

A recent article in The New York Times discusses an interesting angle of development: access to energy. Millions of people don't have electricity in their homes. These people most likely do not have access to the global economy.

In terms of the important factors that lead to economic development, is access to energy, as the article discusses, as important?

(Blog comment 9 is due Tuesday, October 26.)

Econ 170 Blog Post 8: Lead paint, toys, and the public sector

2010-10-13T09:57:00.003-05:00

In Econ 170 on Tuesday we read an article that explained the problem of lead paint in toys coming into the United States from China. The articl e also made clear other global problems of trade that impact consumers.

We discussed the necessity of government protection of consumers in a global economy. To prevent problems such as lead paint in toys imported into the U.S., what should be done?

(Blog comment 8 is due Tuesday, October 19.)

Econ 100 Blog Post 8: Have freshman changed?

2010-10-13T09:30:00.002-05:00

I thought you'd like to weigh in on the debate.

On The New York Times Room for Debate blog, a fascinating exchange took place. A number of contributors wrote about the realities of college life, for freshman. Given the national statistic that 60% of undergrads graduate in six years, it is crucial for freshman to begin college on a strong footing. The debate concerns whether college freshman are as motivated now as previous freshman.

For blog comment 8, read the contributors commentaries and write about the idea or argument that seems most convincing.

(Blog comment 8 is due Tuesday, October 19.)

Econ 465 Blog Post 8: Renewables and the private sector

2010-10-13T09:23:00.003-05:00

In Econ 465 on Tuesday we discussed the news article about Google and other companies building the infrastructure necessary to provide wind energy on the east coast.

After reading the article, do you believe a large effort by the private sector will be necessary from now on to increase the amount of renewable energy in the economy? Or will government have to play the most important role?

(Blog comment 8 is due Tuesday, October 19.)

Econ 465 Blog Post 7: Responses to climate change

2010-10-07T10:27:00.003-05:00

With respect to climate change, how should we act?

Climate change has created concerns with:

Responses to these problems include global, national, regional and local.

Global responses include:

Scientific (IPCC) analysis
International agreements

National responses include:

Environmental policies (taxation, cap-and-trade)
Fuel economy standards
Investments in renewable energy

Regional responses include:

Financial incentives for energy efficiency
Loan subsidies
Rebates for home retrofits
Policies for mortgages and vehicles that consider energy efficiency

Local responses include:

Increasing energy efficiency of homes
Installation of solar panels and wind turbines
Consumption of fuel efficient vehicles
Public transportation
More efficient heating and cooling systems

Where should we focus our resources? (It doesn't have to be, and probably can't be, just one option.)

(Blog comment 7 is due Tuesday, October 12.)

Econ 100 Blog Post 7: Improving student performance

2010-10-07T10:11:00.003-05:00

A great debate exists concerning the focus of resources for public education. Excellent teachers and small class size are aspects of the educational process that society desires. But over the last couple of decades an increase in spending per student has not led to increases in reading, math, and science scores, for students at the end of high school.

The question of interest concerns the focus of new spending programs for education.

How should we allocate resources, to create the largest increase in student performance?

Some possibilities:

More teachers
More teacher training
More supplies
More technology in the classroom
More standardized tests
Fewer standardized tests, with new methods of student assessment
Others?

(Blog comment 7 is due Tuesday, October 12.)

Unemployment report, part 9

2010-10-06T10:06:00.003-05:00

In September the U.S. unemployment rate rose to 9.7%. Check out the 2010 rates, by month:

September 9.7%
August 9.6%
July 9.5%
June 9.5%
May 9.7%
April 9.9%
March 9.7%
February 9.7%
January 9.7%

We're back to where we were at the beginning of the year.

Econ 170 Blog Post 7: America's Real Dream Team

2010-10-06T09:56:00.002-05:00

This week in Econ 17o we're discussion workers in the global economy. What we've concluded is that education and training are crucial to obtain knowledge jobs, which are the key to the future of developed countries.

Our in-class assignment on Tuesday concerned Thomas Friedman's Times article, "America's Real Dream Team."

What are your impressions of the article? In your answer, discuss the relationship between higher education and a dynamic economy.

(Blog comment 7 is due Tuesday, October 12.)

Econ 465 Blog Post 6: A Crude Awakening

2010-09-30T11:23:00.005-05:00

The movie "A Crude Awakening," which we watched in class on Tuesday, addresses the problems associated with global oil consumption and peak oil.

The consumption problem concerns the relationship between higher demand, environmental degradation, petrodictatorships, biodiversity loss, and other issues.

Peak oil refers to the supply-side problem of meeting growing energy demand. The movie argues that it will be geologically impossible to meet a (potential) future demand of 120 million barrels of oil per day.

Concerning the movie, what issue stands out the most to you?

(Blog comment 6 is due Tuesday, October 5.)

Econ 170 Blog Post 6: Mining for riches or ruin?

2010-09-29T09:09:00.003-05:00

A recent article in the Times on mining in South America explains that mining has always "helped to define Chile," while, at the same time, created a high level of dependence on mineral extraction.

In class we would say Chile mines because it has comparative advantage.

Within the context of the article's example, explain both the positive and negative aspects of mining in Chile, from an economic perspective.

(Blog comment 6 is due Tuesday, October 5.)

Econ 100 Blog Post 6: More education or prisons?

2010-09-29T08:56:00.003-05:00

The economic model of crime posits that criminals weigh the potential risk of committing a crime against the potential reward.

This framework provides a fascinating method of thinking through crime in the U.S.: if the goals of the criminal justice system are to reduce the potential return from crime and to increase the risk of committing a crime, how should society allocate resources to these ends?

Specifically, in which of the following areas should society allocate more resources:

Education, where all individuals are better prepared to enter the legal job force (and the return from crime decreases)
Prisons, where the risk of committing a crime increases

In a time of tight government budgets, there is not a lot of money to go around to all public programs, like education and prisons. Policy makers must decide where to allocate scarce resources.

(Blog comment 6 is due Tuesday, October 5.)

Econ 170 Blog Post 5: China to the U.S. to China again

2010-09-23T11:04:00.003-05:00

Here's quite an example of globalization: in today's Times there's an article about Apple iPhones.

The story goes like this. The phones are made in China and then shipped to the U.S. Buyers then wait outside Apple stores in NYC, buy the phones when they become available, and work with people who ship them back to China. In China, the phones are sold in stores for a premium.

What a process! (Or what redundancy!)

Consider the article and the following question: are the networks of globalization making economic activity more beneficial to consumers worldwide?

(Blog comment 5 is due Tuesday, September 28.)

Econ 100 Blog Post 5: Legalization?

2010-09-22T09:24:00.005-05:00

The debate continues!

Marijuana proponent s are reaching a feverish state of excitement (policy wise, that is). Many are arguing marijuana should not only be legal for medicinal purposes, but legal for all purposes.

Those in favor cite the following benefits:

Regulation
Tax revenue
End to drug dealers
Lower prices

The opponents of legalization cite the following problems:

Bringing new users into the market
The fact that the market would expand
The external effects that could occur, including greater addiction and social disruption.

Concerning the debate, do you think the proponents or the opponents of legalization make a better case?

(Blog comment 5 is due Tuesday, September 28).

Econ 465 Blog Post 5: More nuclear power?

2010-09-22T08:59:00.003-05:00

On October 15, 2008, in the third presidential debate, John McCain said:

"We can eliminate our dependence on foreign oil by building 45 new nuclear plants...right away."

What? Was he serious? Or was this another example of a politician saying anything, and expecting that no one has the background to evaluate the assertion?

Well we're here to judge the statement's plausibility.

First, consider the recent history of nuclear power in the U.S. Here's what it says on the U.S. Energy Administration website:

"Despite all of this relatively attractive news regarding nuclear power, there has been no new order for a nuclear power plant since the 1970s. The last nuclear plant to be completed went on line in 1996. A few, perhaps four, construction licenses are still valid or are being renewed for half-completed reactors, but there are no active plans to finish these reactors."

Second, consider the chart. The orange area represents total North America nuclear energy consumption, between 1981 - 2006. In recent years, consumption is relatively stable

Third, consider the cost of building one nuclear power plant can exceed $8 billion.

The question to consider: Should the United States rely more heavily on nuclear power, by constructing more nuclear power plants, or was McCain crazy?

(Blog comment 5 is due Tuesday, September 28.)