The Rich just get richer

[pilots]

Slightly off topic, but if you want to see how rediculously addicted society is to these things then think back to what happened during an electricity shortage in Victoria some years ago.

Air-conditioners banned and everything from musical instruments and video recorders to the home handyman's power drill also banned. Meanwhile the pokies sat there gobbling up power, and they use more than you might expect, because they were deemed more important on the basis that they earn money.

It's a sad society that stops someone drilling a few holes or playing an electric guitar in order to keep the gambling going. Sad, very sad.

The drill and the guitar was not bringing in any tax for the government.

 

[numbercruncher]

It's a sad society that stops someone drilling a few holes or playing an electric guitar in order to keep the gambling going. Sad, very sad.

Welcome to the new Australia folks ...... going down the gurgler faster than you can say Slim dusty ....

Our economy is sooooo going to get spanked .....

 

[Julia]

We may have to agree to disagree on this. Deep down, people will do things and "feel good" about it. One of the "best" markers, IMO, is volunteers.

I agree.

The number of hours spent as volunteers is dropping (recorded fact) and the number of volunteers is dropping at a greater rate (fact), which means that those who are left are putting in more hours. My wife was involved in an organisation and the # of volunteers dropped from 200 to 22 in 8 years, and demand for the services went up.

I've been aware of this too, and in fact a few months ago dropped out myself from one aspect of voluntary work I'd done for more than twelve years as emergency relief worker with a community agency.
There were some 'clients' whose courage and stoicism was awe-inspiring, but too many others who repeatedly used their benefits for e.g. pokie playing, and then wanted the tax payer to front up with that money for paying the rent, electricity etc. As a tax payer this eventually just got to me.

I wonder if another factor here is that many charities and quasi government organisations now structure their business model with the inclusion of the role of volunteers and have come to take them so much for granted that they neglect to ever express any appreciation of the work done.
If the work is tough, then those volunteers will eventually say; "stuff it, why should I bother?"

Add to this the experiments about people not assisting other in "trouble" (and the real life situations) - the more people that observe the event, the less likely someone is to assist. And I'm sure you will find the intervention factor is dropping, due to fear of personal injury etc.

Yes, you're quite right about this. I have a habit of interfering where I see animals being abused and have been warned by friends that I'm taking a significant risk here.

Our family members have been involved with all sorts of programs over the years - with counselling centres, homeless outreach, youth organisations. You see the same faces again and again, especially in smaller cities.

The big city v regional town probably makes quite a difference. Probably more of a community spirit in a smaller town.

But I remain optimistic about people because there are caring people out there.

Cheers

Yes, let's try to believe in the best. By deciding that people in general are uncaring and entirely selfish it can become a self-fulfilling prophecy.

Thanks for making some good points.

 

[johenmo]

I wonder if another factor here is that many charities and quasi government organisations now structure their business model with the inclusion of the role of volunteers and have come to take them so much for granted that they neglect to ever express any appreciation of the work done.
If the work is tough, then those volunteers will eventually say; "stuff it, why should I bother?"

I believe you're right on this - taking them for granted. And some receipients also come to see what they receive as a right. Which is when the volunteers get abuse. And they wear out.

With less gov $ available and more fund-raising (even primary schools) volunteer time is more valuable - increasing demand on a dimishing resource. Seems to be common theme.

It's pity they lost you as a volunteer. To go so long shows dedication and belief.

Cheers