I am able to understand what you mean when you say that you hate doing a cheap job...because like any job that is contracted out, a house flipper makes more money by being chensy. The question becomes why should you want to spend an extra $500 for more energy efficent windows when you will never benifiet.

The problem that we are discussing is a major flaw in socialism/communism, 'why should you strain yourself if its all going to be the same for you.

I feel that you pointed out the question well when you said 'Investors are relying on fed policies more than anything else.' Of course I am a big fan of handeling money correctly...but when you get down to the brass tacks the question becomes 'is'nt going to Las Vegas and wagering all of your money on a craps game also an investment (albeit it is a poor investment) but you are actively trying to add wealth to your portfolio. (I guess the main diffrence between gambeling and investing is...the percentage of risk.) In Las Vegas what do you have like a 1 vs. 1,000,000 shot at winning, but in the stock market you might have a 1 vs. 100 shot at winning.