Economists Should Think More for the Poor
[2009-02-13 15:34:01]
An economist recently wrote on his blog that train ticket prices should have been raised during the Spring Festival traffic rush. He said raising the prices could have solved a slew of problems including scalpers and deteriorating service quality.
The economist suggested that poor people would choose to go home when prices were lower, or might stay away from home during the Spring Festival to save money.
His opinion has triggered wide debate.
Shandong-based Qilu Evening News carries a commentary criticizing economists for not thinking about the needs of low-income travelers.
The writer says price leverage doesn't work when people have a strong desire to go home. Most people, rich or poor, still try their best to buy tickets home during Spring Festival, no matter how slim the hope, how expensive the ticket, or how poor the train services.
The writer also points out that many migrant workers can only go home during Spring Festival. If they are forced to buy high-priced tickets, it will create an additional burden on them.
Economists may only talk about money, but the government can't do the same. It is obligated to help people mired in difficulty and avoid putting unnecessary pressure on the poor.
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