What should we do about the public debt? In this week's lecture and readings, we cover how the public debt was defined and why it has been growing. What to do about government deficit and the public debut is hotly debated. As you have learned, there are two general approaches to reduce a budget deficit:

• Increase government revenues - taxes
• Reduce government spending

In this discussion, we will debate cutting government spending. Begin by going to the Congressional Budget Office and reviewing the long list of potential spending cuts and tax increases.

• From the website above, select one of the proposed changes and defend why it should be implemented using facts and sound economic concepts.
• In at least one of your responses to your classmates' proposed cuts, defend why it should not be cut using facts and sound economic concepts.

In this debate be mindful that it is controversial, be respectful, and base your response on facts and economic principles.