Random Thoughts - The Lancelot Lounge

The Illusion of Efficiency: Why Privatizing Prisons May Cost Us More Than We Think

By Edward Franklin March 10, 2025Economics | Business, Politics | Society

When governments outsource essential services like prisons to private companies, the promise is often efficiency and cost savings. The argument goes that private companies are driven by profit, so they…

The Atheist’s Paradox: How Lack of Belief in the Afterlife Can Foster a Deeper Sense of Humanity

By Edward Franklin March 3, 2025Philosophy | Religion

It is often assumed that a belief in a higher power, an afterlife, or a divine plan provides a strong moral compass and a sense of purpose. However, some argue…

The Overlooked Benefits of Global Leadership

By Edward Franklin March 3, 2025Politics | Society

The United States has long been a global leader, a position that has brought both benefits and challenges. Some argue that maintaining this leadership role is essential for American prosperity…

Tit for Tat and the Triumph of Cooperation: Why Cooperatives Are Game Theory’s Winning Strategy

By Edward Franklin February 18, 2025Economics | Business, Politics | Society

Game theory, the study of strategic decision-making, offers a powerful lens through which to analyze the dynamics of cooperation and competition. One of its most intriguing findings is the surprising…

More Jobs Does not Always Mean More Solutions: Why We Need a New Definition of “Job”

By Edward Franklin February 18, 2025Economics | Business

The economy added 250,000 jobs last month!" These headlines often dominate news cycles, presented as a sign of economic health and prosperity. But what do these numbers truly represent? Are…

From Backyard to Table: Why Neighborhood Vertical Gardens Are a Game-Changer

By Edward Franklin February 9, 2025Politics | Society, World | Culture

With grocery bills skyrocketing and concerns mounting about the quality and sustainability of our food systems, it is time to rethink how we source our nourishment. What if the solution…

The Paradox of Insurance Competition: Why a Larger Risk Pool is Key

By Edward Franklin February 9, 2025Economics | Business

The conventional wisdom of economics suggests that competition drives down prices and benefits consumers. However, the insurance industry presents a unique paradox: while seemingly beneficial, competition can counterproductively affect effective…

From Scarcity to Surplus: How the Internet Revolutionized Relationships and Their Economics

By Edward Franklin December 1, 2024Politics | Society

For generations, finding a romantic partner was a local affair. Your dating pool was essentially limited to the people you encountered daily – at school, work, church, or through family…

Can Divorce and Split Parents/Family Actually Be Good for Children?

By Edward Franklin November 24, 2024Politics | Society, Random Thoughts | Theories

Divorce is often seen as an adverse event, especially for children. However, there is growing evidence that divorce can be suitable for children in some cases. 1. Reduced Conflict: One…

The Economic Cost of Anxiety: A Silent Drain on Society’s Potential

By Edward Franklin November 20, 2024Economics | Business, Politics | Society

We often discuss anxiety and stress in terms of individual suffering, focusing on the emotional toll and impact on personal well-being. But what if we broadened the lens and examined…