In fact, I will be given about $11,000.
But instead of protesting, I secretly hope it is passed.
I’ve been corrupted by the government’s ability to hand out ‘free’ money, and though I resent it just a little, I will still cash the check if it comes.
When it comes to doing the wrong thing, the government is usually pretty reliable. After all, nothing wins votes like handing out free money.
Its purchasing power has to come from somewhere, and in this case it comes from all of you.
Initially it will take a little bit of value from the money you already have, and then it’ll take just a little bit of the money you work to earn, when you pay higher prices, and when you pay your taxes.
Such a small amount, you won’t even notice.
That’s the beauty of spending programs: benefits are concentrated, but costs are dispersed.
It’s easy to see who is benefiting from a given program – me – but difficult to see who is paying – you.
In this kind of system, as various factions seek out their share of the ‘free’ money, it becomes a merry-go-round in which everyone is stealing from everyone else. From farm subsidies, bank bailouts, welfare payments, military contracts, and corporate bailouts, to $3000 toilet seats.
Costs are dispersed.
It’s easy to see the winners of any program, but not so easy to see the many losers.
But is it still theft, if the people being robbed don’t know it?
I think it is.
This is why I oppose government spending programs. The temptation to do, or allow, the wrong thing is simply too strong when a personal gain is presented.
In my case, it didn’t really take very much. Imagine when there are billions at stake…
People suddenly become very creative in explaining the ‘goodness’ of such programs. They say it will stimulate the economy, they say it will create jobs, they say it will support the poor, save the whales, make America strong, and if nothing else works they’ll say it’s for the children.
They’ll say whatever it takes to get the money.
Here’s my justification: I’m going to pretend that the money only comes from those who are foolish enough to believe in free money.
To the rest of you, I apologize.