The Maneater recently conducted a small-scale survey of almost 200 students inquiring about students’ opinions on government spending and spending cuts. We very well understand the statistical reputability of this survey isn’t at all up to par, but the results of the survey were still unnerving.

Out of the almost 200 people we surveyed, we hoped a good number would have some sort of opinion on government spending and cuts, as such matters affect all of us. However, 51 of the 183 respondents said they had no opinion or were unsure which programs should be cut if cuts had to be made. The second most popular department to be cut was “Unsure or no response.” Which, frankly, is sad.

We live in an age of rapid technological advancement, and the entire world’s knowledge is at the fingertips of anyone with Internet access. Being informed doesn’t require a daily, thorough reading of the New York Times or the Wall Street Journal. It shouldn’t take an abundant wealth of knowledge or interest in politics to care about national issues like this. We understand not everyone is the political know-it-all of their friend circle. But whether you know what they are, Medicare, Social Security, defense spending and countless other government expenditures affect us every day. There is no escaping them.

It’s pretty easy to know and understand what’s going on in the world. A simple Google search and three minutes of reading will instantly enlighten you about what’s going on in the Middle East, where Social Security stands in Washington and literally everything you need to know to have even the simplest understanding of the world we live in.

The Internet is by far the most valuable resource we have in this age. The Internet was switched off in Egypt, but Egyptians are still able to figure out what’s going on in their country.

Be informed. It’s easy.