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Show opinion/ MONDAY-NOVEMBER 14*2005 A7 Following the money trail As an economic system, relatively speaking, capitalism has done allright. The United States, in particular, has thrived under it, and in the process become the most powerful nation in the world. The American Dream, the idea that no matter our born status we can rise up and make something of our lives, is something that gives people hope, and when attained, becomes an inspiration. However, for all its virtues (and I'm sure I'll hear many more in letters in weeks lo come), there becomes something seriously flawed when EVERYTHING is driven by competition and money. Take the media, for example. Have you noticed the rapidly growing trend of sensationalized news? Have you noticed the fact that some news networks and papers have serious biases and agendas? Why do you think this is happening? Money! It's a chase for ratings, money and power. Isn't it a shame that the runaway bride, Natalee Holloway, and the latest celebrity trial gets 100 times more coverage than a GENOCIDE in the Sudan or an earthquake in South Asia that killed 80,000 people! This is the byproduct of capitalism. News organizations want to stay competitive, so they give us the latest on Brad Pitt, Jennifer Aniston and Tom Cruise and neglect matters that are infinitely more important and newsworthy. In addition, because politics are also controlled to a large degree by money, they in turn are able to influence the way we receive our news. Both liberal and conservative bias is rampant in the media, and the reason, in very similar fashion to politics, is due to both corporate donors and knowledge of their "base." I won't even bother to go further into how politics are infected and corrupted by money, but surely any one who cares to do a bit of research on the subject, will agree that it's certainly not the ideal way to produce the best leaders for our country. Education has also been affected negatively by money in many ways (the most glaring problem being it doesn't have any). Our country currently values its education so much that a high school teacher in a state like Utah probably makes less than someone who works full-time at Wal-mart orTaco Bell. Besides being seriously under-funded, institutions of higher education, in particular, are becoming eerily-similar to corporations. Donors often have enormous influence on college decisions. In many cases, the result is that money becomes a larger priority than the students, teachers and even academic freedom. I could proceed to go into healthcare, welfare and numerous other problematic areas, but the bottom line is this: Capitalism is a seriously flawed system. Those with money, particularly large corporations, have too much control. In addition, the discrepancy between the rich and poor is ridiculous and unecessary. Do I have all the answers for a viable alternative? No. I recognize, historically, other systems, in spite of their theoretical purpose and intention, have been even more fatal than capitalism. However, that doesn't mean that what we have is the best and the only way to proceed into the future. This weeks The Good, The Bad, and The Ugly all rolled into one wonderfully horrible circus of a train wreck... b u t \ with beautiful people: Nicole Richie, daughter to R & B superstar Lionel Richie, Simple Life co-star with ex-best friend Paris Hilton, and former Hollywood spoiled brat turned successful media moneymaker has written a novel entitled. The Truth About Diamonds. It tells the fictional story of one "Chloe Parker" who has a superstar father, grows up in the Hollywood limelight, battles run-ins with paparazzi, the police, and drug and alcohol rehab, is heart-wrenchingly betrayed by her best friend - a fellow Hollywood debutante - only to finally emerge triumphant as a gifted and creative young adult. Wow! The next great American novel. Move over J.D. Salinger. You've got to wonder where she gets her material? (he good (he bod (he ugly . • II, Thank you Utah Valley! Thanks for helping make our first training class so successful! Due to this year's success, Teleperformance is expanding our operations across Utah. We are currently looking for Inbound Customer Care Representatives to join our team in our new center in Lindon. Teleperformance offers health benefits in just 30 days, flexible schedules, paid training, the opportunity to grow and exceed your potential, and the ability to make a difference. Call today to find out more about these great opportunities and to schedule an interview with one of our professional recruiters. Build your future with a company that cares about your success. Come home to Teleperformance. Call Now to get Your Holiday Sign On Bonus! plus $ 1 0 0 for every friend you refer! Call Today! 866-509-716t Teleperformance mm.. V EOE GLOBAL CUSTOMER RELATIONSHIP MANAGEMENT " $250after 60day*and $250after 120day* "After 45 daysemployment ; -'-v ,' |