2012年ESL之日常生活 10 Different Political Philosophies

 

Different Political Philosophies 

Carla: Our government should do more to help people who can’t find jobs. 

Adam: Be careful. You’re starting to sound like a socialist¹. Haven’t you always said that you’re a staunch capitalist? 

Carla: Of course, I’m a capitalist, but that doesn’t mean I think the government should be completely hands-off. We pay taxes and the government has a responsibility to take care of its citizens. 

Adam: Ooo, now you’re sounding like a communist. Next thing I know, you’ll be calling for a revolution. 

Carla: I’m serious. I think the government should help people find jobs and pay for their living expenses until they get back on their feet. 

Adam: Okay, but in a capitalistic society, you’re subject to market forces. If people aren’t buying, businesses aren’t producing or providing services. That puts people out of work. Do you think the government should intervene²? 

Carla: I just think the government should do more, that’s all. 

Adam: Okay, but that would mean higher taxes. 

Carla: Yes, we should tax the rich, the more the better. 

Adam: Aren’t you among the top 10 percent of income earners? 

Carla: I mean they should tax the one percent! 

Adam: Pass the buck³, you mean. 

Carla: No, I mean we need better distribution of wealth. Are you with me or against me? 

Adam: That depends on when you’re planning to start the revolution, comrade. 

 

Script by Dr. Lucy Tse 

1 socialist   

n.社会主义者；adj.社会主义的

参考例句：

• China is a socialist country,and a developing country as well.中国是一个社会主义国家，也是一个发展中国家。
• His father was an ardent socialist.他父亲是一个热情的社会主义者。

2 intervene   

vi.干涉，干预，干扰，阻挠

参考例句：

• When riot broke out,the police were obliged to intervene.发生暴乱时，警察有责任干预。
• You don't intervene between those two drunks.你不要在那两个酒鬼之间进行调解。

3 buck   

n.雄鹿，雄兔；v.马离地跳跃

参考例句：

• The boy bent curiously to the skeleton of the buck.这个男孩好奇地弯下身去看鹿的骸骨。
• The female deer attracts the buck with high-pitched sounds.雌鹿以尖声吸引雄鹿。