Lesser of Two Evils

The same kind of adverts, the same reasons, the same audience, yet different treatment. The first one is easily spotted. You can find it in the local newspaper, TV channels (including Astro), radios, billboards, You tube and most surprisingly in Yahoo Insider which label reads 'paid political advertisement'. On the other hand, the second only gets its place in You tube.

This situation can otherwise be known as asymmetric information. Pardon me for the Economics jargon, it is simply a situation where the customers (electorate/ voters) have limited information about a product (choices/ real news/issues) and tend to make unproductive decision by purchasing that product (voting the less capable candidate) without seeking more information i.e. conduct a survey and etc. An easy example is the situation when your mechanic rips you off because you lack the knowledge about your car.

Free and Fair

This particular scenario shows how free and fair our election process is. The government has access to all possible resources while the opposition is left handicapped relying on their tours and Internet campaigns which will only affect a handful of people (middle class, intellects, youths). By the way have you ever wondered where do all the money for campaigning come from? Makes me wonder too, but I won't waste your time rambling about that. Let's waste it on something else shall we.

Voting could be quite a hassle for the 'voting virgin' and the indecisive type. Marking an 'X' might be simple enough but don't take it for granted as it will give power to the victors for another term of 5 long years. Here is another economic solution that could help you to pick the most eligible candidate. I'll try to be as impartial as I can.

Lesser of two Evils

This method is called the cost benefit analysis. For the layman, it is process of listing the pros and cons of something. However, at the end of the day, your decision will depend on what you value most, either more of this or more of that. So let us not waste anymore time and go on with it.

If you vote for BN, you will get more development, more money in pockets (cronies), maybe a Datukship recommendation at the expense of rampant corruption, the government getting complacent and arrogant, controlled media, unequal distribution of wealth and the mismanagement of funds. If you vote the opposition, there will be new fresh ideas, less corruption ( I hope), freer media, make the Barisan more humble, a right to demonstrate at the expense of less development, less experience and maybe a riot by the BN supporters which could only happen if the opposition forms a government.

By comparing both and evaluating them you will eventually choose the lesser of two evils. Its your choice.