Government Corruption, Which breeds more: Term Limits vs. Life Timers
It came up in another debate as a side note, but it was interesting enough to spawn its own debate.
Some people think that term limits prevent corruption by limiting the amount of face time politicians spend with corporate sponsors and lobbyist. It is also believed that this short timer approach maintains the good Samaritan attitude that generally gets people elected since it does not have time to develop into complacency. On the other hand people who have little invested in the system have little to loose by its manipulation. The lack of longevity may also create a sense that corrupt activities are justified since their stay will not produce the business partnerships that lifers experience.
Life long politicians have mastered all the skills needed to become effective manipulators of the system, but perhaps they are not as corrupt because of their investment in the system. The appeal of a cozy job with benefits to numerous to count is a reasonable deterrent against corruption. Also it's important to note that the business relationships they develop may yield fruitful careers outside of the political atmosphere, and a scandal would invariable bring this to a screeching halt.
Tell me what you think. I look forward to our discussion.
Term Limits create corruption
Side Score: 3
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Life Timers create corruption
Side Score: 4
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With term limits, more average people cannot seriously pursue a career in politics. Four or eight years later, when their job inevitably times out, they'll be "back to reality." Could your average Joe take a four or eight year leave from his work, and return without consequence? No! Perhaps some employers would allow this, but relatively few. The best thing Joe could do for his own, personal future is to secure a job with a large corporation during office, so he has a place to go afterwards. Or, play it safe and simply not run for office -- leave that to the independently wealthy politicians who don't have to worry about this. If, on the other hand, there weren't term limits, then so long as Joe continues to please his voters, he can continue to have a career in politics. That's a high incentive to do well. So, when one is about to reach a term limit, what incentive is there for him/her to continue to do what's in the best interest of the voters? None. There is no re-election. Unless independently wealthy, or "in" with a big corporation or two, their best bet is to either secure a job with a corporation, or to make friends with other politicians in order to secure another job in politics. But in order to keep a career in politics, one must be well networked with other politicians, so that you can move from senator to representative to campaign manager to economic advisor. That means all the honest Joes who try to enter politics and stand their own ground are gone in no more than two terms, either out of politics or in with the politicians. Conversely, without term limits, the elected official would be on his/her best behavior for however many terms he/she has. Seriously, what is wrong with a politician continuing to stay in office as long as the people approve of him/her? Side: Term Limits create corruption
1
point
I say let them eat cake! who cares what congress does. its what society does that matters! all forms of government are corrupt to the bone! what we need are some boneless chicken wings. oh ya. yes sir. mmmhmmmm. its all conspiracy! don't believe the propaganda known as 106.1 news station. BOYCOT THE BUILDINGS AND GOAT CHESSE. they're in on it too. don't listen! you have been warned. WE ARE THE 32.4% Side: Term Limits create corruption
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I'd say that term limits fights corruption and irresponsibility in general. One of the main problems with our current Congress is that they are spending more money then they are taking in because they feel the need to pass laws containing pork legislation. This pleases their voters but overall pisses off the rest of the country because it helps contribute to the deficit. But term limits on them and these life timers won't have to waste tax payer dollars to get another term because they won't be allowed to run to begin with. Side: Life Timers create corruption
2
points
I believe it would be rather tough to have a corrupt system if those wishing to be politicians knew their term would end after their first. I find it interesting that the current PTB don't involve themselves in the health care system they are voting on nor do they worry about Social Security since their golden parachutes are packed once they are elected. All branches of the US government are completely corrupted and can only be fixed circa 1776. There is no alternative. Side: Life Timers create corruption
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