I propose a new goal for the western world

[Jeff Maginty]

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[gingerjedi]

Hello Bono.

[xoggoth]

Agree with the first, it's totally unsustainable and personally (as a mean old bastard) I can't really understand it. Why does anyone need more than reasonable comfort?

Not so sure about the 2nd. Great ideal but how do you do it? Foreign Aid? Studies show that even in well governed poor countries 1% of GDP as aid grows the GDP by only 0.5% and in poorly governed countries the GDP does not rise at all. What gets to the people who need it just increases population, creating an even bigger problem for the future. Some reckon most foreign aid is counter productive as governments slew their policies to get more aid rather than tackle the real problems. Rather like welfare here, it can be very destructive of incentive.

[Jeff Maginty]

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[Jeff Maginty]

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[d000hg]

You'd have to define suffering first as well. Do you simply mean eliminating death by starvation and exposure?

[Jeff Maginty]

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[darrenb]

why not make it your goal to end suffering..............................

Life is suffering.

[Gonzo]

Agree with the first, it's totally unsustainable and personally (as a mean old bastard) I can't really understand it. Why does anyone need more than reasonable comfort?

We are all programmed to want to provide our genetic heritage, kids, grandkids, great-grandkids and on and on, with the maximum possible advantage in this harsh world.

Nothing wrong with that, it is human nature and can't be avoided.

And besides, Krug is so much better than Laurent Perrier so why would anyone be happy to settle for something inferior just because it is still comfortable?

[VectraMan]

Invade their country, take the f**kers over and enforce peace and prosperity on them (British empire style!). Maybe if the US, Russia & UK joined forces it could happen. Get a few more on-side (e.g. India, China, Australia) and it's a done-deal!

Nothing helps end the suffering of poor people more than a war. Great idea.