Silicon Investor (SI) -- The First Internet Community

STOCKTALK

We've detected that you're using an ad content blocking browser plug-in or feature. Ads provide a critical source of revenue to the continued operation of Silicon Investor. We ask that you disable ad blocking while on Silicon Investor in the best interests of our community. If you are not using an ad blocker but are still receiving this message, make sure your browser's tracking protection is set to the 'standard' level.

Politics : Ask Michael Burke -- Ignore unavailable to you. Want to Upgrade?

To: Mama Bear who wrote (84889)	11/5/2000 11:23:09 AM
From: Freedom Fighter	Read Replies (1) \| Respond to of 132070

My feelings about government programs like SS, medicare, etc.. are mixed. They are basically insurance programs that serve a very useful purpose. I have no real problem with socializing some risks. My auto and health insurance may be provided privately, but they are basically attempts as socializing risks. The problem with putting these programs into government is not the programs themselves. It's the political process and the lack of alternatives or competition. If my auto insurance company stinks I can switch. And each of the companies is driven to increase productivity and service in order to make more money. Same with health insurance. I have no such options once these functions are placed within the government. Second, it's hard to change a program once it's in place because the politicans will get thrown out of office. Similarly, if you promise the public the world you will get elected even if what you are promising makes no economic sense. Wayne

To: Mama Bear who wrote (84889)	11/5/2000 2:09:16 PM
From: Skeeter Bug	Respond to of 132070

mama, i think they could. however, there are a couple problems. almost everyone votes their self interest above the interests of integrity and long term stability. the politicians know this and they'd be doa if they ever put forth such plans. i understand a republican in virginia (i think) repaves the roads once a year or two with federal funds. necessary, no. good way to get elected as those jobs pay well - just another form of wealth transfer. the beneficiaries love the program. gimme, gimme, gimme. ultimately, our political failures belong to the voting public. the folks in office do what we want them to do. transfer wealth from everyone else to us. pathetic, but oh, so true.