Smart People

“FDR was reacting to the economy of his time. Today we need to consider Friedman’s flat world theory, globalization, and the end of the cold war.”

“Do you think the single mom of four living in the projects just outside town gives a shit about how NAFTA is paying laid-off middle class factory workers to become nurses and computer programmers? She’s worried if the food stamps are going to last the rest of the week because her meager paycheck has to pay for little Billy’s penicillin because he has another ear infection from sleeping in a drafty bedroom in their run-down, government subsidized apartment. Little does she know, Billy is developing an allergy to the antibiotic, because of his repeated exposure to a moldy bathroom, because the slum lord won’t pay to replace the vent fan. And the guy getting a grant to become a programmer doesn’t realize that the job waiting for him after graduation is being sold to India at a fourth of the American salary.” Brigid paused and fiddled with her medical alert bracelet. “I like smart people who disagree with me, because I need to know my opposition before engaging in an argument.”

Sid studied her, searching for gap in her logic or a twitch of doubt. "You're really good at this."

"I f#$ked the debate team in high school."

Sid's mouth dropped open.

"Silly boy, that's a movie quote."

"Ah."

Photo: kasprzak