Debt is like a drug.
It creates a false sense of security while poisoning the mind and the body.
The reports below outline a strategy for getting America out of debt, while building a sustainable future.
MAIN
A Strategy for US Budget Reform
This report sets some key political priorities for reform.
This includes a list of government investments and revenues that are necessary for America's future.
This report gives an in depth account of what is needed to deal with America's current budget crisis.
Building a Sustainable Future: A Global Outline For Reform
This report includes ideas for Global Reform as well as the Environmental and Political reforms necessary in building a sustainable future.
WHAT NEEDS INCREASED US GOVERNMENT SPENDING?
We believe that there needs to be a comprehensive approach to the budget crisis.
Mindless budget slashing and spending in the wrong areas can be dangerous.
The Need For a Manhattan Project on Renewable Energy
Since 1980 America has slashed its research funding for renewable energy by over 75%.
It's time for America to mobilize a major commitment to renewable energy spending and research.
Throughout American history the government has played a vital role in investing in America's economic future.
Today, there are few more important national priorities than building out the high speed internet for all Americans.
WHAT SHOULD BE AMERICA'S TAX PRIORITIES?
In What Areas Should We Increase US Taxes?
Consumption Tax Energy Tax Financial Transactions Tax
In What Areas Should We Reduce US Taxes?
Charts on US Taxes
ENERGY
As outlined in the sections above, one of the pressing issues of our time is finding alternative energy sources.
This is doable from a technological and scientific point of view. However, we need to summon the political willpower to make this a reality.
Some important political points about America's Energy policy are outlined below.
The Dangerous House Appropriations Bill That Would Cut Renewable Energy In Half
The House has recently passed an Energy and Water Appropriations bill that would cut Renewable Energy in half and Renewable Energy Research by 80%
This report includes a discussion of the bill itself as well as a comparison to the Senate's much more reasonable bill.
The World Future Fund does not have an exact position on this subject but we do feel strongly that we need to raise both private and public investment in this country.
Boxer Sanders 2013 Energy Bill
These two bills would be a "gold standard " for energy efficiency and environmental protection.
ENVIRONMENTAL
The Budget Crisis and the Environmental Crisis are not separate issues.
The following chart below shows America's dangerous lack of commitment to a responsible environmental policy.
EPA Budget Cuts Chart
This chart shows that there has been a 75% drop in EPA funding in the last 3 decades.
HEALTHCARE
Single Payer Health Insurance Plans
A majority of the world's modern states have single payer, universal health care.
Even if we adopt the Affordable Care Act in 2014, 30 million United States citizens will still lack health insurance.
Single Payer Health Insurance is the only realistic option on the table.
EDUCATION
Much like our Health Care system, education is an area where Americans spend more and get less.
We spend more on Education than any other nation in the world, and yet the results are limited.
This is an area where we need smart spending, not more spending.
Education Spending: An Area Where America Spends More and Gets Less
INVESTMENT AND SAVINGS
International Savings and Investment
America is falling dangerously behind in terms of saving and investing in its own future.
Chinese investment and savings rates are more than three times higher than American savings and investment rates.
You get what you pay for. It's time for America to invest in its future.
Collapse of America's International Investment Position Chart
This chart shows the collapse of America's international investment position over the last 30 years.
AMERICA'S ENORMOUS ANNUAL LOSS IN WORLD TRADE
America's Balance of Payments Deficit Chart
This chart shows America's enormous annual losses in world trade over a period of 30 years.
MILITARY
The structure of NATO was built when Europe was in ruins and a Soviet Empire threatened to take over the continent.
This is no longer the case, and yet Americans are paying the bulk of NATO costs. It's time for reform.
CHARTS
Here is a collection of the World Future Fund budget charts mentioned in this index.
TAXES
ENVIRONMENTAL
INVESTMENT
Collapse of America's International Investment Position
LOSSES IN WORLD TRADE
America's Balance of Payments Deficit
LINKS
For more information on the current budget situation, check out our set of political links.
Government and Private Sector Budget Links