Economic analysis

Regarding “Why has economic output slowed?” (Page A1, Friday), the central question posed is, even though employment has been on the rise the last few years: Why has economic output slowed? Just Thursday, I got a peek at a partial answer. In a small but busy RV parts-and-repair facility, morning muster was being taken of the technical staff and their assistants. Of that staff, probably eight or 10 in number, only one tech was present, accounted for and ready for the day’s toils. The remainder were “absent without leave,” no excuses, just absent.

The service manager, while facing his obligations without the workers to fulfill them, managed to maintain a calm demeanor and was more than willing to expound further. Several examples: There had been the worker who refused to work unless allowed to do so “barefoot!” This in an environment including heavy tools and equipment.

Another, would not show up for work until 9-9:30 a.m., in an 8 a.m. shop. He said that even though it was not his usual “modus,” he would try to adjust, that is, over time.

Then there was the one that demanded a top hourly wage even though having had no experience and when refused said he could do better on unemployment anyway!

This country became known as the “arsenal of democracy” during War World II only a few years following the “Great Depression. Full employment backed a mighty war effort, with many serving in the military branches, others in industrial and other support industries.

Ever hear of “Rosie the Riveter?” I did; I was only a kid at the time. Women helped fill the industrial ranks vacated by men by then clad in various military uniforms. And they did a magnificent job. Ever watch the 24/7 efforts of a firstclass mother? Now, there’s an example for all workers — a little less testosterone, a lot more estrogen.

It has not been high corporate taxes alone that has driven industry abroad.

Edward B. Williams, League City