The Fallacy of "Green Jobs"

Every time I hear a politician talk about government spending to create "green jobs" I can't believe the illogic of the argument:

1. If "green" energy works, it will take the place of "old" energy - oil, coal, natural gas, etc.
2. So if green jobs go up, old energy jobs go down.  Best case there is a one-for-one trade off a lost carbon energy job for every green worker who gains a job.
3. If green energy really is more efficient, it means that the total energy needs of the U.S. will be supported by fewer people, so green energy means a net loss of jobs.

But at the end of the day "green jobs" is just a code word for government spending boondoggles that do nothing to help the employment picture, or create more energy, or bring energy costs down, but some people go along with it because it "sounds good".

Dumb Move. First They'll Steal Your Technology, Next They Will Crowd You Out

Lesson 1: don't trust the Chinese.  Lesson 2: they will stab you in the back (see Lesson 1).  But GE, thought to be a well-run company, apparently doesn't know since they agreed to share their jet technology with China.

 
Name one - any - company that is happy with their joint development efforts with China.  Name one that hasn't had their technology boldly ripped off?  Name one who has made money in the long run.

Literary Quote of the Day

The world breaks everyone, and afterward many are strong in the broken places. But those that will not break, it kills. It kills the very good and the very gentle and the very brave impartially. If you are none of these you can be sure it will kill you too, but there will be no special hurry.

- Hemingway, "A Farewell to Arms"

Business Quote of the Day

The most dangerous negotiation is one you don't know you're in.

- Jim Camp