“There is no virtue in compulsory
government charity, and there is no virtue in advocating it. A
politician who portrays himself as “caring” and “sensitive”
because he wants to expand the government’s charitable programs is
merely saying that he’s willing to try to do good with other
people’s money. Well, who isn’t? And a voter who takes pride in
supporting such programs is telling us that he’ll do good with his
own money — if a gun is held to his head.”
-- P.J. O’Rourke
I've long enjoyed P.J. O'Rourke's writing, and sense of humor. But I think it's important to remember his past ... before he 'discovered' he was a Republican ( he actually leans more Libertarian, but ...not especially important.) I like the guy ... but I'm not sure he's sincere. So, with that in mind? I offer my favorite article of his from the late great National Lampoon ... Give to it the significance which seems relevant. http://heretical.com/miscella/reptile.html
ReplyDeleteHowever sincere he may be he's hit the nail on the head.
ReplyDeleteCompulsory charity is compulsion and if you're concerned about sincerity there'll be precious little sincere charity when it's forced.