Yes, that is one good thing about this country. At least we can still debate each other respectfully.ProTouringASC wrote:The problem is, you can't take away a person's right to be just plain stupid. If I smoke 6 packs of cigarettes a day, never get check ups, drink a 5th a night, and never bother to purchase insurance of any type, is it really societies responsibility to take care of me when I get sick?negusm wrote:I hear you. I wouldn't mind an insurance plan that has a $20k deductable as a safety net. Sure $20k would hurt but at least I could dig myself out if I needed too. I could pay for the routine visits...
The problem again is prevention. We would need a system of carrots and sticks to make sure that people go see the doctor on a regular basis. Major medical alone simply won't curb the high cost the poor are putting on the hospitals that pass the ER costs on to us.
I believe I have a right to reap what I sow, and if I sow well, I reap well, and if I sow poorly or not at all, I starve. Now do not think I am being callous here. If you do something stupid and reap the consequences of that stupidity, I feel for you. I also, where I can, want to help you if you are now trying to grow beyond your former stupidity, but I don't think society in general should have to pay for that.
Just so you'll know, I sure have enjoyed chatting about this with you. You have made your points well, and respectfully, and I hope I have done the same in return. I'm in Frederick, MD now, but we will soon be moving to the Oak Ridge/Knoxville, TN area. One day we'll have to meet up for a beer as this is just one aspect of a system that needs a complete overhaul. From taxes to jails, our system is broken, and I bet we could knock back a few while setting forth plans for its overhaul! Hmmm... they probably wouldn't listen to us though...
Shiny Side Up!
Bill
-Mike