Summary
Phil writes from Dubai, contrasting Dubai’s open economy with Melbourne’s lockdowns. He notes Melbourne’s 30-year cycle from 1990-91 (worst Australian downturn), 1961, and 1931 — the city has historically fared worst at mid-cycle points. He critiques government as an institution and promotes his Citizen’s Dividend e-book. Notes Dubai’s app censorship (WhatsApp audio/video blocked) but Signal works.
Key Claims
- Melbourne’s 2020 lockdown repeats a 30-year pattern (1990-91, 1961, 1931) of the city faring worst at mid-cycle. — confidence: high
- Melbourne’s pattern may trace back to the 1851 gold rush and subsequent bust. — confidence: medium
- A government that gives everything can quickly take it all away. — confidence: high
- Dubai’s economy remained mostly open throughout 2020. — confidence: high