Why Can't Americans Make Things?

Some years ago, I went on and on about the problems with American Industry.

One of my observations was that at one time the guy who ran a steel factory might have been a foul, nasty, hard nosed bastard --- but --- he knew all about STEEL. He knew what it was, how to make it, what made it better, etc. He was open to improvements, was open to innovation (as long as it actually made the product better), and wanted to run his business.

Today (I would say back in the 1980's and 90's) these same places are run byMBA's, "bean counters", people who read a balance sheet -- but knew nothing about the business they were supposed to manage. Now, there is an article in The New Republic (not exactly a bastion of "Liberal Thought") that says the same thing in a nicer way. It's titled Upper Mismanagement -- Why Can't Americans Make Things? Two Words: Business School.

Please follow the link and READ IT. I think it's very important to us all. We've forgotten the satisfaction of running a business, making good stuff, innovating, improving products -- and, making a good living (as opposed to being filthy rich).

It seems everyone wants to work in a nice, well lit, office. As opposed to being in a factory, with actual working folks, and (perhaps) getting your hands dirty every so often.

That is where the USA has shown "decay". It has nothing to do with "gay" marriage, abortion, or lack of "that old time religion" -- it's about wanting to be a lawyer, accountant, MBA, stockbroker, financial guy, instead of being production oriented, a manufacturing and process guy.

Historically, they ran the business -- and hired the lawyers and accountants.

It's time to start making stuff again.