The world is slowly understanding why water and carbon must be truthfully priced. If we intend to be more than temporary guests on this wonderful planet then we'd better conduct our business accordingly.
However, before we rest on our carbon neutralised laurels, a more fundamental question begs to be asked; what about the price of life?
Confused? Consider the following stories.
Justin Hannan (27) has a rare medical condition costing $300,000 a year to treat. Is his life worth saving? Think about your taxes before you answer.
In 2007, Les Peterson lost his 18 year old son Darren in a car accident on a notorious black spot of the Princes Highway. Eight months later, his wife Vicki died on the same road. Money can improve the highway, but how much is enough?
In August 2007, the Howard government recalled SAS troops from Afghanistan to support the APEC security operation. Meanwhile, Taliban forces seized the opportunity to regroup, and on returning to the front lines, SAS Sergeant Matthew Locke was killed in a fierce gun battle. If APEC security couldn't stop the “The Chasers” then was the 170 million dollar operation money well spent?
The pricing of life is an issue too important to be left to lawyers and accountants, and too personal to be casting proverbial stones. “What's Your Life Worth” stands as a signpost at the crossroads of economics, politics and morality.