Most wouldn’t dream of stopping someone in the street, pulling a gun, and demanding money.
Transportation in the U.S. is overwhelmingly provided and paid for by customers within private markets.
Spending lobbies have figured out that if they can get their pet projects labeled as “economic development,” they have a better chance of securing appropriations than if they identify their real goals.
Ignoring the law of scarcity can lead to costly unintended consequences.
When fiscal conservatives question government funding for a program, they are accused of not valuing it. That is a mistaken view of the proper test.
What do the new Harry Potter movie and fireworks displays have in common? Each has its 'magical' component. Yet, objections to screening Harry Potter films in publicly-subsidized theaters like Raleigh's IMAX at Exploris are entirely justified. These commercial films should not qualify for taxpayer-subsidized presentation. They are neither undersupplied, nor 'public goods.'
It looks as though a legislative plan to tax pet food to fund spaying and neutering programs isn't going to move in Raleigh this year. That'll do, legislature. That'll do.
We must have a clear understanding of the components of debate before we determine the proper roles of government.
Lots of folks say that North Carolina’s massive investment in public higher education has had huge benefits for the state and its economy. Higher education is valuable, but there is little evidence that above-average taxpayer subsidies improve outcomes.
