Colbert spoofs the Democratic National Convention’s green efforts and transitions into an interview with Libertarian presidential candidate Bob Barr.
After more than a week off, the Colbert Report returns with a exceptional show. Following a bit where Colbert juxtaposes DNC commentary with B-roll from Burning Man, he explores the convention’s green efforts.
Libertarian presidential candidate Bob Barr then joins Colbert for a quick interview in which he admits that anthropomorphic climate change aka global warming is real. He recounts how he was convinced by attending one of the WE events with Al Gore and, per the Libertarian platform, says that the market should figure it out.
We’ve quoted Libertarians before in reference to climate change and property rights. In principle, we’re very much aligned with Libertarian thought. However, most succumb to the dogma and fail to address issues reasonably. Climate change is a great example.
Global warming and all of its related crises have been caused by government meddling in the form of making oil cheaper than it ought to be through taxpayer subsidies, U.S. military protection, and so much persuasive foreign relations. The full costs of burning oil, coal, and natural gas have not been factored into the unit price; on the contrary, government has functioned to make them even cheaper than they should be. And for what? To line the pockets of corporations who control those resources at the expense of our health, economy, and national security.
Unregulated free markets also give us toys with lead, the mortgage and credit crisis, and a rash of health issues related to our food supply. Markets need to be free to the degree that they don’t do harm. That’s certainly open to interpretation, but the above examples demonstrate clear harm. And if those in the free market do harm, they ought to be held accountable.
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