Make sense of the Census
Being so active on the internet, I come across a large quantity of “scare media”. By scare media, I mean videos that proclaim the end of the world, blog posts that cry polar ice caps are going to destroy all of the coastal US, and such. Generally speaking, the premise of this media is based on something true, or “true-ish”, and blown out of proportion for the purposes of swaying political votes, encouraging web site visits, or just breed fear (here’s a great example).
However, the latest installment of media forwarded to me actually is playing out pretty interestingly. Jerry Day, a self-proclaimed news broadcaster has put out a video which seems a bit conspiracy theory at first. So, I did some research, and uncovered some interesting facts.
The Census website boasts “One of the shortest forms in history – 10 Questions in 10 Minutes“, and shows you a sample form. But if you dig around you’ll find the ACTUAL questionnaire which includes questions like (actually copied from the form, word for word):
- IN THE PAST 12 MONTHS, what were the actual sales of all agricultural products from this property?
- LAST MONTH, what was the cost of electricity for this house, apartment, or mobile home?
- What is the highest degree or level of school this person has COMPLETED? Mark (X) ONE box. If currently enrolled, mark the previous grade or highest degree received.
- Because of a physical, mental, or emotional condition, does this person have difficulty doing errands alone such as visiting a doctor’s office or shopping?
- How many times has this person been married?
- How many weeks DID this person work, even for a few hours, including paid vacation, paid sick leave, and military service?
- Wages, salary, commissions, bonuses, or tips from all jobs. Report amount before deductions for taxes, bonds, dues, or other items.
- Interest, dividends, net rental income, royalty income, or income from estates and trusts. Report even small amounts credited to an account.
- What are the annual real estate taxes on THIS property?
WTF!? These are the kinds of questions that I don’t answer if my FRIENDS asked them.
Anyway, here’s the video I mentioned earlier, make your own conclusions: