金融趣谈：Earmarks and Pork Barrel Spending_百科

金融趣谈：Earmarks and Pork Barrel Spending

ackground: The term “earmark” first appeared in English around 1591, when it was used in its literal and original meaning: farmers marking their livestock animals such as pigs or cows through a little cut or mark in the ear to identify the ownership. However the meaning associated with the term nowadays in the U.S. has become a major political metaphor. Earmarking means “to designate” or “to set aside” specific amounts of government funding for specific projects by U.S. congressional members.

The term “pork barrel” traces its origin back to the slavery era before the U.S. Civil War (1861—1865). In those days, slave owners occasionally gave out a barrel of salt pork to award their slaves for their good behaviors. After the Civil War, the term was used in a derogatory sense, referring to the appropriation of government funding for certain projects that are intended primarily to benefit particular constituents or campaign contributors.

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Tina: Did you know that the term “earmark” no longer is used in the context of livestock animals’ ownership?

Tom: I know. “Earmark” has become a political metaphor.

Tina: Did you know that congressional earmarks are used as guarantees of federal funding?

Tom: How does it work?

Tina: Well, when lobbyists, contractors or some influential individuals give big contributions to congressional members during their campaigns, they expect something in return once the candidates are elected.