Jeremy wrote:
] A scientist shortage? Again? The gloomy warnings are
] back.
]
] A crisis is in the making, says a report.
]
] Overall, a grim picture -- of questionable validity.

See my post in the DMCA Congressional hearing thread...

This author correctly notes that the political/economic system incents lawyers and disincents scientists. It also disincents artists and more recently, engineers. This author is also correct in noting that minor policy decisions which run against the grain of the economy are counterproductive.

I have a great interest in the legal profession and a lot of respect for many good lawyers that I know. However, the ABA readily admits that what large numbers of lawyers do in a society is protect entrenched interests. You have to be an entrenched interest to afford a 6 figure person to protect you. Thats why the ABA is so hopping mad about salaries for public defenders.

A society that incents large numbers of lawyers and disincents artists, scientists, and engineers is a society that is becoming more entrenched. One that is become less creative, less dynamic, and less adaptible.

History is a long list of societies which became entrenched and static and then collapsed under the weigh of changes beyond their control.

What the author is missing is that you have to think outside the box and ask if the system is really taking you in the direction you ought to be going. People who drive cars with blindfolds on don't live very long.