OPINION:
China governs countless millions in relative harmony and order. On a recent visit there we noticed people playing cards and dancing to music in a beautiful city park. Our visit to the world’s largest Starbucks was in Shanghai. Shops were bustling and choices were many. While negative air-quality readings in Shanghai and Beijing dwarf those of Los Angeles, things appear to be generally better than ever. Why? China does what our government declines to do.
There appears to be a dearth of information in the U.S. pertaining to the reality of “free” trade. Many think that because they can “social network” and make instant overseas transactions with their phones, there is uniform “globalization” transcending international borders. The only changes modern technology has brought to centuries-old, self-seeking global trade and economic interdependence is speed, naivete and misconception.
Current U.S. philosophy is subverted from when we were the world’s richest producer. Billionaires, media and politicians capitalizing on the current wayward trade and economic-import policy should reconsider where our manufacturing dependence is leading. We must cooperate to find ways to achieve our former stable productivity and prosperity.
For those who are dissatisfied with the personality of our current president, the solution should be obvious: Give us a better alternative. Americans are tired of having our jobs outsourced then being forced to compete with illegal foreigners for the leavings, while dialing one for English in our own country.
LOUIS BOEHM
Orchard Park, N.Y.
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