Saturday, March 12, 2005
EUROPE: LIKE CIVILISATION, EXCEPT WITH MIRROR BALLS
How far behind the US is Europe? They’re still in the disco era:
The US economy is 20 years ahead of that of the EU and it will take decades for Europe to catch up, according to an explosive new study published on Friday.
The survey, unveiled by pan-EU small business organisation Eurochambres, is intended as a sharp “wake-up call” for EU leaders as they gather on 22 March for a summit on how to boost growth and jobs in the EU economy.
The EU’s current performance in terms of employment was achieved in the US in 1978 and it will take until 2023 for Europe to catch up, the report shows.
1978! 1978! When the game-based US economy stood on the verge of an Atari revolution; when nerds were yet to commence their global takeover; when the Death Star Playset was a gift to honour the birth of our saviour; when art wasn’t; when Harley Davidson made dirt bikes; when bands either needed more drugs or took too many; when cars were a good argument for walking; when the link between diet and acne was still undiscovered; when massive childhood hairstyles obviated any need for bicycle helmets; when fonts were designed by Satan; and when Michael Jackson scared crows instead of children.
Blend all those frightening images into one. Add a Eurodisco soundtrack. Be unemployed. Hate capitalism. You’re now experiencing modern Europe!
UPDATE. The French like it in 1978, and want to stay there:
Planes, trains and metros were canceled, and postal workers and teachers stayed home in a nationwide day of defiance Thursday against government economic policies—notably plans to let the French work longer hours.