Editor's Note: I came to Joe's writing and views of the world far too late in his life. I contacted Joe asking for his permission to reproduce his work, he said in reply, "By all means feel free to use anything of mine you find on the internet. That's why I put them out there...to be read. In friendship, Joe". I did and I do consider Joe a friend . I miss him. I urge everyone to read a daily dose of Joe's understanding of the real world, as he saw it and how the people he came into contact with saw it. Here, on this site you will find a small but growing sample of Joe's musings and observations. In the meantime, please take the time to visit Joe's website and read his work as often as you can. If you can manage it, purchase his books. You will not be sorry. Joe had a way of getting down to the basics that very few have, while having a greater understanding of the results of that reality. Joe Bageant (1946–2011) R.I.P.
Not much more, dear hearts, not much more
Freedom comes in many forms in America, and new forms are constantly being created. The latest has been freedom from basic financial security. The weakened economy has given corporatists an excuse to, as they say, "let workers go." Which sounds as if companies are granting employees some sort of freedom: "Go on George, twenty years on the job is long enough, so git outta here. Have yourself a ball!"