Some thoughts on patriotism

I often find patriotism a difficult subject to talk about, for a number of reasons. For one, both major parties profess patriotism. While I acknowledge that there are Democrats with great love for our country, I have found patriotism to be far more common among Republicans, and well-meaning policies from even the most patriotic of Democrats often do great harm to the country. In addition, I have heard a number of liberals say disparaging things about this country, which always fills me with disgust. This is in marked contrast to the solemn pride that most conservatives feel about their association with this country.

To be sure, I respect patriotism and love of country in all nations, and I have a great love of a number of other countries. This love includes an admiration of their culture, and a fascination with their history. But as far as countries go, I have only one true love, and that is America. To her I shall be forever loyal, and my heart will always sing her praise.

My love-hate relationship with economics

"Let's start with what economics isn't.  Economics isn't a meal ticket to make lots of money in the stock market, although economics helps you understand how stock markets and other markets work. Economics also isn't a business degree, although economics teaches important business skills. Economics, first and foremost, is a social science.  As such, economics helps to explain the mysteries of how people and society operate ... Economics is defined as the study of how people choose to use their scarce resources in an attempt to satisfy their unlimited wants."

- A webpage that influenced my decision to study some economics in college

I did not fall in love with economics, the way that I fell in love with history and politics. This is not to say that I didn't like the subject, but it didn't excite me in the same way. There are parts of it that I find quite fascinating, and others that I find quite boring. But it is definitely one of my interests, and I'll talk a little bit here about my love-hate relationship with economics.