Mammon category archive
The Privatization Scam, Medicare Disadvantage Dept. 0
“Medicare Advantage” was nothing but a Republican ploy to let insurance companies skim profits from the public purse. Thom explains the con.
The Snaring Economy 0
A very small glimmer of hope for the ensnared.
It’s All about the Algorithm 0
“Social” media isn’t.
Aside:
As I have said before, the landscape of the internet has changed drastically since the Communications Decency Act was passed almost three decades ago. I agree with Dan Romer in the article at the link. “Social” media outfits that manipulate content so as to attract “eyeballs” and increase “engagement” are not impartial platforms for their users’ statements, unlike, for example, my most excellent hosting provider, which provides me a platform, but does not manipulate my content in any way.
Section 230 of that act sorely needs updating to reflect the reality of today’s internet.
Facebook Frolics 0
Well-regulated Slap-on-the-wrist frolics.
A Case of Piles 0
Thomas Bass wonders what can be done about our mounting mass of nuclear waste. An excerpt:
Follow the link for a detailed look at the problem.
The Crypto-Con 0
Writing at the Tampa Bay Times, University of South Florida professor Murad Antia writes that he has little trust in crypto-currency. A snippet; follow the link for the full explanation of his reasoning.
Facebook Frolics 0
The things that you’re liable,
To read in the Bible Facebook,
They ain’t necessarily so.
Suffer the Children, Triangle Shirtwaist Factory Dept. 0
Sam and his crew foresee an effort to return to the days of child labor and sweatshops.
It’s All about the Benjamins 0
The Rolling Stone’s Tim Dickinson follows the money.
“An Armed Society Is a Polite Society” 0
Steven M. does a deep dive into the marketing methodology of the merchants of politeness.
Also, too.
The Crypto-Con 0
Grung_e_Gene sums it up:
Follow the link to read the full screed.
The Formulaic Monopoly 0
In case you wondered, as I did, why there could possibly be a shortage of baby formula, Thom explains how it is a direct result of Ronald Reagan’s decision to stop enforcing anti-trust laws, which in turn has allowed one company to dominate the baby formula market. That company’s manufacturing defects and a resulting factory closure led directly to the current shortage.
And, because of the monopoly, there are no significant competitors to pick up the slack.