dlish

the idea of failed states in this economic environment is not unforeeable, but at the same time, down right scary!

poor african countries would be the prime example, but so could a handful of other european and south american countries too.

the thought of having the populace take things into their own hands without a legislative framework makes me shudder.

what effects do you guys see as this having on world economics?

the quote in the final paragraph rings so true. if the banks fail, and the governments falter, its quite easy to see a weak government fall to its knees. what kind of threats do we see emerging as a result of this?

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inBOIL

There's opportunity for positive reform in a state's failing, but this will almost certainly be squandered by outside interference.

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"On two occasions, I have been asked [by members of Parliament], 'Pray, Mr. Babbage, if you put into the machine wrong figures, will the right answers come out?' I am not able to rightly apprehend the kind of confusion of ideas that could provoke such a question."
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flstf

Throughout history failed states or I should say governments are the natural order of things. It seems like those in power cannot help themselves from being or becoming corrupt. The trick is for leaders and polititians to enrich themselves, their families and friends without destroying the system but they usually are too greedy and can't figure out how before it is too late.

girldetective

I see a place for old Colonialism here but without the exploitation. Instead more of a sort of big sister/little sister sort of thing. It could become a competition between the larger, richer nations to see who could get their little country going full strength with the GNP, education, infrastructure, etc. An assholeish thought perhaps, but one that might work.

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. . .

Running out the door again--blowing you a nice long kiss - DA
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Cynthetiq

interesting perspective GD, a buddy system. It worked in SE Asia in the 90s if I recall.

I'm thinking that there's part of evolution for this as a wise person reminded me, in order for something to evolve, something has to die.

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lostgirl

I just want to quote a lot of Dune and Children of Dune right now.