I really like this video from Mike Rowe, host of the show Dirty Jobs. Apart from this being a sneaky way of getting me to watch his show (because after seeing this I just like the guy in general), it addresses a lot of the stuff I like.

Here, watch the damn thing first so I don't spoil it.

Direct link for the feedreaders.

Okay, so first, I like the way he establishes the idea of questioning authority. Or how there's a time and place for authority, like the OSHA->OCEAN comment–which is fantastic. And how when trying to do the right thing–like with the castration story–we have to be careful we're not doing more damage than we intended. Self-questioning is important, and not just when performing animal husbandry.

Real work is needed–and I believe that we should all work smarter and not harder–but sometimes hard work is warranted. As for the idea that we need people who can work real honest manual labor…I agree. I also think that you'll see their compensation rise if they're that needed. Hell, I don't know about you, but every time I've called a plumber or electrician, I've felt they were well paid for their activities. And I'm one of those people who would rather pay more for quality and customer service…and I've had pretty good luck with that. I don't think we need some kind of mandate to increase pay for these occupations…I think the money will go where the experts are. And those who seek discounts will sometimes get what they pay for.

Anyway, the talk is fascinating. As are most of the TEDTalks out there. Thoughts?