Raleigh: Since the times of Cold War when the U.S.A. and the U.S.S.R. have engaged into fierce military and non-military competition, the development of space programs was crucial for both of these countries. Consequently, both countries (and later some other countries) have devoted significant financial and human resources to developing space programs. For the United States, the Apollo landing has proved to be a crowning moment and since then, the country has allocated a lot of money for its space program. For example, federal budget granted to NASA (National Aeronautics and Space Administration) totaled 526.18 billion dollars in the period from 1958 to 2011. Most recently, NASA has requested 17.5 billion dollars from the federal budget for its 2015 program which will be largely devoted to major astrophysics and planetary exploration programs. Continue reading
2014 Symposium: Is it time to audit lottery monies used for state programs?
Asheville: On paper, lotteries sound like a dream come true for states struggling with budget problems. They raise considerable revenue, which can be used to fund education, health care, and other budget priorities. They are funded voluntarily by people who choose to gamble, which means they avoid the political pitfalls of increased taxation. They’re popular, they’re fun, and they’re easy. Nothing could go wrong. Continue reading
2014 Symposium: Should we re-negotiate student debt? If so, why? Does this create a moral hazard?
Raleigh: It is well-known that getting college education in the U.S.A. is an expensive endeavor. While most people strive to get college education because it opens many more doors for them in the future and potentially allows to earn more money compared to counterparts without college education, the very cost of college education is becoming prohibitive. According to the College Board, college cost for an in-state public college for the 2013–2014 academic year was about $22,826, while average yearly cost for a private college was about $44,750. Add to that the cost of living, and the sum can truly be too high to carry for vast majority of American families. Continue reading
2014 Symposium: How do we stop the flow of illegal immigrants through our borders?
Asheville: Illegal immigrants are a vital resource for the economy. The depressed wages in the agricultural sector make it possible for many families to put food on the table. Housekeeping and janitorial services provided at sub-minimum wage costs represent a tremendous subsidy for businesses of all kinds. Immigrants who come to America seeking a better life represent the lifeblood of several important industries. Rather than asking what we can do to stop the flow of illegal immigration, we should be asking what we can do to encourage it. Continue reading
2014 Symposium: Should pet owners be able to deduct a portion of their pet care?
Myrtle Beach: As the proud parent of a rescued dog of course my answer is yes! However, despite my obvious bias I do believe there is honest merit to this question. In many states overpopulation in shelters is a very big problem. This is another topic all together. But adoption is the main way to control this overpopulation. Continue reading
2014 Symposium: Should the government be allowed to terminate trademark rights for material some may deem “offensive” (Washington Redskins controversy)?
Raleigh: Current times are times of political correctness. It is quite dangerous to say or write something which does not agree with popular opinion without subjecting oneself to onslaught of public scorn. As such, many high-profile cases come into public attention when they deem to be politically incorrect. One of these is the case of Washington Redskins football team name which many Native Americans feel is derogative and a racial slur against them. Should the government be involved into such cases and rule the change of trademark rights to go along with current political culture? Continue reading
2014 Symposium: Should the government be involved in the politics of sports (LA Clippers, Ray Rice, and Washington Redskins)?
Asheville, NC: Government is actively involved in the regulation of sports. Legal monopolies are granted to the MLB, the NBA, and the NFL. All three organizations are also granted tax-exempt status despite their enormous profitability. Professional sports organizations receive billions in bonds, tax deferral, and civic money for the construction of new stadiums and other facilities. The degree of co-mingling between government and sports organizations is already quite dramatic. Continue reading
2014 Symposium: Do celebrities have a responsibility to be positive role models for young Americans?
Myrtle Beach: It’s no secret that there is a problem in our society with “image.” Most Americans are interested, if not obsessed, with celebrities in general or at least a select few. In our digital age it’s very easy for us to stay up to date on the latest drama with Justin Bieber or see Lindsey Lohan’s latest mug shot. As a society we are obsessed! The problem with this obsession is that not only do adults have access to this, but our children have access as well. Our young, impressionable youth are able to stay up to date on the latest celebrity sex tapes. Ultimately, parents should be responsible. But in this digital age the youth of this country are constantly bombarded with celebrities. Continue reading
2014 Symposium: How can society become better stewards of our environment?
Myrtle Beach: There are small changes that every person is capable of making to help the environment. Simple things like recycling, walking in short distances, car-pooling. Those are just some minor lifestyle changes that don’t cost much of anything and will aide our environment. Continue reading
2014 Symposium: Should illegal immigrants or any non-citizen be able to receive government financial assistance (i.e. welfare, food stamps, etc.)?
Myrtle Beach: I’ll give this one a RESOUNDING no. I am a 30 year old American female citizen. I work a part time job for 8.00/hour and have no children. Guess what? I “make too much” to receive any sort of assistance. If I had a child that would be another story…but that is an entirely different issue altogether. Now, to be fair I don’t really need it at this very moment in my life; but there was a time when I did, and I was not eligible. Continue reading
Thinking Outside The Boxe 