Some economists say the government should be spending more now to stimulate a recovery. Thirty-eight percent of Americans seem to agree with that. But 56 percent have said “government spending when the government is already running a deficit is the wrong approach during an economic downturn because it is only a temporary solution that increases long-term debt.”
Some economists? I would have guessed more than half. A lot more. Whatever. But Brooks seems to think it better to canvas the entire country and give more weight to those who haven't made a lifelong study of the discipline. Hmm. Would you rather ask your neighbors about a particular medical treatment, or your doctor? Not sure? Go ahead; get a second opinion -- from another doctor. Got a problem with your car? Don't ask your friend, the dentist, or your brother, the accountant. Ask an auto mechanic. Ask several. But don't take a poll.
Here's how I would have written that paragraph:
Some economists say the government should be spending more now to stimulate a recovery. With America's infrastructure falling behind the rest of the developed world's, nine percent of our workforce idle and long-term credit at record lows, now would be a good time for the government to pick up the slack in spending.
Oh, well. I don't write for the Times. But in Brooks's very next paragraph he says (my emphasis):
These majorities are focused on the fundamentals. They say that repairing the economic moral fabric is the essential national task right now. They are suspicious of government action in general, saying that government often undermines this fabric. But they support specific federal policies that nurture industriousness, responsibility and delayed gratification, like spending on infrastructure, education and research. They distinguish between the deserving and undeserving rich.
Huh? Come on, Dave. Go back and rewrite this column.
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