[MD] Ham unlike you I will not create false idols

[Arlo J. Bensinger]

[Arlo previously]
This is similar to the modes of thinking criticized in ZMM, where "immediate
gratification" (36 cents) must be contrased with "long term results" (greater
wages in the community mean more consumer choices, a stronger tax base for road
repair, libraries, police and fire, and schools).

[Platt]
Again, your narrow focus on a tiny section of the globe reveals a narrow,  
parochial outlook. 

[Arlo]
Please explain why greater local wages, and the community benefits it brings
(which I mentioned), is a "narrow outlook". If the wages in a community drop,
as they do when a Walmart opens, how does that help the community?

[Platt]
Yes, you can find "the sky is falling" articles on almost any subject under the
sun. Doom, gloom and fear is big business among the intelligentsia with Noam
Chomsky leading the pack.. 

[Arlo]
Except that all the articles I've found are from conservative sources. There is
near unanimous agreement that wealth derives from manufacturing jobs (both
personally and for the local and national economy), not retail or hospitality.
Do you disagree with the conservatives on this? How are people more empowered
when they earn minimum wage, versus the greater wages associated with
manufacturing jobs?

Arlo