Apologies if this is injecting too much mind-killing, but I really started taking notice of this type argument-gymnastics last year about the "Cash for Clunkers" program.

"This program is great! It will get money to the struggling auto-makers."

"Wouldn't it be more efficient to just give them money like we did before? And what if it just goes to the strong auto-makers?"

"Well, maybe. But think about the environmental benefit of all those old cars off the road!"

"Wouldn't it be more efficient to just spend the money on the environment directly? And isn't manufacturing a bunch of new cars bad for the environment?"

"Well yeah, but it will get money to the struggling auto-makers!"