Some Wierd Science
Example 26-A
A federal grant was used to install solar panels on the parking garage roof of a major US airport. One problem: the reflective panels were blinding the pilots, so 25% of the panels had to be removed. But the remaining panels, say officials, will generate ” $2 million in savings over 25 years. “
Example 26-B
In 2013 a county in Virgina received funding to build a bus stop complete with Wi-Fi, heated benches and sidewalks, and a wall made of etched glass that opens the rear vista to newly planted landscaping. Too bad the slanted roof doesn’t do much to keep out rain and snow, or provide shade in the summertime.
Cost to taxpayers: $1 million
Example 26-C
Executives from various independent music labels received an all-expenses-paid trip to Brazil in 2013 ” to compare the record stores, club districts, and facial expressions of locals at the mention of their bands.” While the execs reportedly enjoyed their trip, one of them said he ” didn’t ink any deals.”
Cost to taxpayers: $284,300
NO COMMON SENSE
ANALYZE THE EXAMPLESÂ
* Which supports and barriers were in play?
* What were the dynamics?
* What, or who, won the Tug-of-War?
* Discuss the outcomes with your friends and family.
* Use Post #4 as a reference for the dynamics, and the relationships, between supports and barriers.
