That's a definite no-no too, Daffy
Lots of people, all around the world, are concerned with the future of America. One person is so concerned that he's been suggesting an emergency escape plan from the US. I like Mark's bold strokes, but I get the feeling he's half-joking. I would argue that if the US were to suffer some catastrophic meltdown, there would be no place in the world that would not feel the effects. I would further argue that the people who will suffer the most will be the people with the least means to leave. There's also that this is a sort of tacit defeatism combined with an implicit and all-too-common 'false consciousness' slur of the American populace which you hear from most Europeans without the slightest trace of awareness of the nasty corporations and statist power-grabs in their own backyard. Its all too Neo-Malthusian, as if the arguments surrounding this are missing several logical antecedents and consequences. The net effect of millions of emigrants from America would have quite the opposite effect than I think Mark is thinking when it comes to expanding American influence abroad: now its a slow leak out to a variety of countries; vast groups of families leaving en masse would likely go to a very few other countries, pushing more Americanization of other countries. Still I think it is an idea which should be given a great deal of consideration from all Americans, if for nothing else than Katrina and its ominous conflux of Republican incompetence and malicious ignorance of global climate change. With all the gravity this proposal deserves, I give you a survivalist guide to life in the wider world:
A Guide for Americans
Packing
Most American foodstruffs are relatively easy to acquire outside the US, or reasonable facsimiles thereof. You will however be unlikely to find any great quantities of: root beer, macaroni & cheese, grape-flavored chewing gum, or ranch dressing. Stock accordingly.
Be aware of the electronic anarchy which will prevent you from using that snazzy Nano without a softball-sized adapter. In fact, if you could carry a renewable power supply such as something solar-powered or crankable than you can go anywhere, but if that were feasible that we wouldn't be fighting for energy resources would we?
Transportation
Ocean transport, barring the occasional Somali or Malay pirate, seems more flexible to the vagaries of terrestrial turmoil. Consider prepping your seaworthy craft with a sonic blaster to keep away the thugs which threaten its ocean voyage. Also first-time seagoers will need more than Wikipedia to brave the changing conditions of operating a boat. Of course, the ancient technique of sailing boats might make a comeback in some post-Peak scenario, so learn the difference between port and starboard and how to tie a bowline hitch.
Destinations
Adjustments
You will be unlikely to retain employment in your former profession if it is service-oriented. The American ideal of customer service is viewed as a fascistic threat to life in many places and your written desire to 'give 110%' will likely confuse and frighten prospective employers. You will likely end up in time-honored immigrant positions preparing your native food for your hosts, or if you are lucky, putting good use to your experience mowing the lawn and changing your oil.
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1 Comments:
True true.. I wasnt considering the longterm effects. I guess just like waves of immigrants from the past never considered the long term effects either, it seems. The spread of conservative values.. religiousness.. individualism.. maybe some greed and obescity. I changed my mind! close the borders!
Ok I kid. but really.. Im worried about my younger family members and their future in that crazy place.