Should U.S. Bail Greece Out? Dumb Question

The answer has to be a resounding no. The first people to help Greece out are the Greeks themselves. For such a proud nation, one would think they would. If austerity measures (unfortunate shock treatment) prove elusive, next in line should be the EU. Along cultural lines it should technically be the Mediterranean nations but of that bunch only Italy and France really have the financial means to do so. In the case of Italy, it's less probable given its own fiscal problems. That leaves Northern Europe and Germany in particular. Either way, let them figure it out.

Then there's the whole notion of alliance. Greece hasn't exactly been pro-American over the years. Part of the reason, I reckon, is because of America's close ties to Turkey.

The only rationalization that could apply to all, and this is a macro angle, is to consult Ancient Greece's legacy and its contributions to Western civilization. In this way, all of the EU and America could argue they have a vested interest in maintaining Greece's solvency.

Nonetheless, America is in no financial condition to bail other nations. Charity, after all, begins at home.

It's going to be interesting to see how all this plays out if it does indeed mean a financial reconfiguring of the system.

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I hear a lot about how this is the result of over spending by governments but I hear very little about why governments spend excessively. No doubt corruption plays a role but how did we in the West - and I group us all in the same boat for we pretty much have similar structures and policies tailored to fit our respective nations - become so addicted to "tax and spend" ideas?

Moreover, while the people of Greece are likely to get hit hard and blaming incompetent politicians and tax evaders may be justified, they shoulder some of the blame as well. Populations too demand unrealistic services from government and politicians are all too willing to provide them so long as they bring votes. Blame can go in circles but everyone had their bit to play in it. The EU has effectively subsidized the living standards of Greece. Tick, tock finally rang. And the shitty thing is the people will pay.