[JohnnyB]

Originally Posted by PepsiFree

I would think a key to a productive conversation would be to reference what I said verbatim, not purposefully misrepresenting or misunderstanding without asking for clarification and going off that, no?

Yeah, so....

Originally Posted by JohnnyB

Do you actually mean that?

Originally Posted by PepsiFree

I also didn't say "cost of living, labor markets, and the economy aren't complex" I said "The system isn’t that complex. We invented it. Every single complexity that exists is one we invented and one we can change if we want to." You quoted that, so I assume you read it, and it doesn't require context to avoid misinterpreting it as "the system isn't complex" when I specifically mention the "complexities." 'That' is a pretty key word here. The point being, it's human. We engineered the complexity into it. We can engineer it out.

I disagree that we engineered the complexities into it or that we can just change them if we want to. I don't see that as credible.

Originally Posted by PepsiFree

If you want a productive conversation, sure. First step: let's keep it honest. Second step: let's assume we're beyond the foundational basics and that everyone understands "the economy" and everything related is complex. It'll make for a more interesting conversation. Just saying it's complex like that is a salient point in and of itself is kind of lazy. You reducing it down to "just crank hard on one lever to fix the system's problems. It would certainly cause a lot of other problems" means you're coming in late to the conversation and asking to be hand held on stuff people have already addressed. Which is fine, but don't act like we're all starting at zero again once you show up.

I was pretty honest, beginning by asking a question to clarify your position. You're responding with a condescending and impolite tone, but I don't actually see you writing anything that makes me find you particularly thoughtful or credible. I'm not wasting time on that. Enjoy your day.