AT&T to buy territories from Verizon for $2.35B

[kindaskimpy]

I frown on government stepping in most of the time because it never works out well for the people they supposedly serve, but I understand why those laws are there. While some companies might deserve to be rewarded for their great business and foresight and would know how to responsibly handle the reward, some would abuse that power ad without those laws, how do you reign those in?

[clayjm]

Do you really think that company could have done so well to get in a position of being able to abuse the power, if they weren't somewhat capable of being responsible with the power? As much as you don't like Verizon, they've never done me wrong, and while I don't appreciate the nickle and diming they do on all the little stuff, I've never felt they provided me with an unsatisfactory service. Apparently many would agree if they continue to be the largest network.

[kindaskimpy]

That's your opinion and obviously you are entitled to it. I happen to disagree because no matter what type of self-control you've shown in the past or sense of responsibility, it's a whole different ball game when you know for a fact you've got no chains around you. Sooner or later you start realizing what that means, the possibilities it holds and it corrupts you. With no one to stop you, why not kill an innocent? (FYI, I could never. I feel bad killing roaches.)

[clayjm]

It doesn't matter how much power they could obtain, they start pissing the common people off they will have hell to deal with...pitchforks and torches.

[kindaskimpy]

I don't think it always works out that way. If it did, dictatorships wouldn't exist. By the way, I love that you and I can go from technology to politics, to dirty jokes, to pop culture, to sex... we can talk about anything. I say something and you're right there with me... that's rare.

Okay, okay, I'll stop with the mushy stuff.

[clayjm]

1) how often do dictatorships last? Usually not very often.
2) When they do last, has the country they're running ever experienced anything other than dictatorship?

[kindaskimpy]

Though I can't come up with any off the top of my head at the moment, I'm sure there have been plenty of cases where dictatorships have been established in countries where freedom has reigned before. I actually can think of a couple but those aren't ironclad, they can be argued. For example, some say Venezuela is heading into a dictatorship if it isn't already in one, Some, obviously, disagree.

[clayjm]

good point, you've convinced me.

[kindaskimpy]

You're just saying that to placate me which is so unlike you but okay. I'll let it go.