On economists being ‘metaphysical philosophers’ and national health care

To an economist, perhaps, there is no difference between activity and inactivity; both have measurable economic effects on commerce. But the distinction between doing something and doing nothing would not have been lost on the Framers, who were “practical statesmen,” not metaphysical philosophers.

–Supreme Court Justice John Roberts, National Federation of Independent Business v Sebelius, 28 June 2012, pg 24

Didn’t expect to LOL at the SCOTUS decision. But calling economists ‘metaphysical philosophers’? Maybe Supreme Court Justice Roberts and I agree on more than I thought…

Also, yay for the Supreme Court deeming it is constitutional for Congress to try to expand health care to virtually all Americans. Seriously having a whatwillItellmykidswhentheyaskmeaboutthisdate moment. Talk about historic, folks.