Stan-
I may have grossly misunderstood James' original suggestion, but I was under the impression that the goal of his "labor camps" ( a very poor choice of names)was exactly that- to promote self-sufficiency. Perhaps I wasn't reading as cynically as the rest, but I thought he meant it as a sincere and legitimate, although drastic, suggestion. Were people as "animals" mentioned? Punishment? I think that came about later when the hyperbole began. Originally, the idea provided a structured environment that taught skills, provided the basics, including childcare, and was designed to, I assume, channel the individuals back into society-but no longer on welfare. I didn't get the idea that it did away with assistance to the disabled or elderly. It was obviously a barebones idea with a lot of details not considered-but the process does not work now, and I'm pretty tired of watching my tax dollars go toward such an abused and self-perpetuating system. Unfortunately, the concept got buried without any real discussion on merit or feasability.
I dunno-did I allot James more sincerity than he had? I just thought he was exploring outside the box, which is ok with me. Explain to me what's wrong with requiring certain behaviors in return for benefits? |
