Do you understand economics?

I'm trying. I try to understand how money flows. Who decides how much I can have and how much I can keep? Is it important for all Americans to have money? Someone has to buy stuff. Or, is it even necessary in our global economy? Are exported jobs paying enough to create new markets, new customers to buy stuff? Am I, the average American, expendable?

How was I able to buy gas yesterday for $2.31 a gallon? The last time I was out in my gass-guzzling pickup, I was thrilled to find gas for $2.79. And, that was only a couple of weeks ago. I think it has something to do with stocks, the stock market, or investments in oil or oil futures. I found this letter to the editor entertaining.

Is that the answer to our economy ... investing? We're producing less and less stuff in America. We do make drugs (pharmaceuticals). Their prices are regulated now that we have a MediCare Prescriptions Program. Pharmaceuticals seem to be a very good investment. The only people complaining about the prices,and/or government support of the prices, are the people who use the drugs. Investors are loving it. Insisting on competitive pricing would reduce the income of investors.

What else do people with enough money invest in? Oil Companies, Health Care Companies, Financial Institutions. Hmmmmm... Investing must be the foundation of Economics 101?
It certainly isn't "retirement plans." The government made it legal to eliminate those plans. They are a financial hardship ... on corporate America.

Honest, I'm trying to "keep it light."