According to the concept of "creeping normalcy", it is easy to overlook slow degredation of structures over time, if the change is gradual enough. Americans are very quick to point out any perceived threat to their social structure, pointing the finger at everything from homosexuals to unwed mothers to interracial marriage. Yet an outcry is never raised about very real, measurable deterioration of vital systems. According to the Dept. of Transportation, 34% of US roads are in severe disrepair, costing vehicle owners bilions of dollars in maintenace fees, among other things. 27% of US bridges are in disrepair. According to Consumer Reports, 40% of hospitals are understaffed. Etc., etc. Why do these issues continually fly under the radar? Investing $1 billion in infrastructure is estimated to create 42,000 skilled and unskilled worker positions, for example. Don't we want serviceable roads, and adequate health care? It just doesn't make sense to me. What do you think is the problem?
2007-03-05
12:45:09
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6 answers
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asked by
Hauntedfox
5