Jan 22 2012: I mostly agree.. but you basically just described what we have now--except you forgot the most important part is health care system that doesn't rely on a person without means going to the emergency room--where we all just pay anyway. The government already provides a place to live and food for most of the working and non-working poor. They are even trying to get it so food stamps only covers the basic and not pre-made items or junk food.
When people lose their jobs-- except for the few with health problems-- they are bemoaning the loss of their nice TV, car and home that they no longer can afford. So nothing will change there. Everyone thinks the system doesn't work right now-- well it really sort of think it does. Of course there is abuse and some are getting left out of the system-- but the newer electronic food stamp card used at Walmart is a darned good value for the American taxpayer.
For reasons of efficiency, I really believe the food and housing should stay privately provided with government subsidy. If the government is going to provide anything --I believe it is in health care makes the most sense. Yes, it is not perfect, but drive your behind up to Canada and ask a few random people what they think. Those with money and better insurance from there jobs can still get better health care, but that is the place where the government can really make a difference with peoples suffering.
TEDCred score: 0.00 TEDCred reflects your contribution to the TED community.
A reply on Conversation: So how DO we balance the need for creative people to get paid for their work with the ideals of a creative, sharing culture?
When people lose their jobs-- except for the few with health problems-- they are bemoaning the loss of their nice TV, car and home that they no longer can afford. So nothing will change there. Everyone thinks the system doesn't work right now-- well it really sort of think it does. Of course there is abuse and some are getting left out of the system-- but the newer electronic food stamp card used at Walmart is a darned good value for the American taxpayer.
For reasons of efficiency, I really believe the food and housing should stay privately provided with government subsidy. If the government is going to provide anything --I believe it is in health care makes the most sense. Yes, it is not perfect, but drive your behind up to Canada and ask a few random people what they think. Those with money and better insurance from there jobs can still get better health care, but that is the place where the government can really make a difference with peoples suffering.