Socialism: As American as Apple Pie
Too many people are mislead by false definitions.
Conservatives have been brainwashed into having a kneejerk reaction to
the word, socialism without even considering that this country's very
essence, some of the most important reasons we are the people we are, is
because of Socialist institutions.
America's parks, have bonded it's families, challenged it's young people,
and their beauty is a source of national pride. Everyone that visit them can
marvel at the magnificence of our planet and it's gifts. And these parks are
maintained by public funds and are accessible by all. That is decidedly,
"Socialism".
Our roads are a wonderful example of how socialism is vital to capitalism,
and the American dream. The open roads were essential for commerce,
truckers could move goods, salesmen and entrepeneurs could thrive.
Americans could explore, maintain and build relationships, and move
themselves and their familes to where the jobs were. Our vast tourism
industries developed out of our road system also.
Our road system, was at one time the best in the world, and we all paid for
collectively.That's a Socialist program if I ever heard it. Besides, if we did
not share this cost as socialists what would the millions of Americans who
live down long country roads do, if they had to maintain those roads
themselves. But as they are part of the community we shoulder that cost as
a group.
Our police forces are socialist institutons. Anybody ever get a bill from the
cops? No, because we all no their importance and are an expense we share
as a group. Our justice system as well, with a juror system of 12, depends
on their representation of the collective to to dispense justice.
How about public libraries? Who could calculate how much this
institution has enriched our nation? How many doctors, scientists,
inventors, and presidents have public libraries been an invaluable resource
to? In my own life I've been spotted in a library or two, how about you?
Remember when zoos and museums were free? As kids we loved to go
learn and spend the day. Not it is priced out of children's reach. There is a
charge for every exhibit. Monkey House? $16.95 extra. Reptile World?
That'll be another $11.95. Can I just take the kids to the zoo?
Don't forget about the postal service, fire departments, projects like
tunnels, dams and levys? Everyone benefits from socialism if it is truly in
the service of the people.
Our military. Surely no one wants to privatize the military? It's socially
funded.
Socialism is a tool. Like a hammer, a gun, an automobile it depends on
who is using it and what their purpose is.
I believe in capitalism and have benefited greatly from it. However, there is
this misconception that socialism and capitalism are at opposing sides of
the spectrum. Anyone who gets up a little earlier, works a little longer,
applies their talent, deserves to be rewarded. A country that provides
roads, libraries, and other services that the country's most innovative
citizens to utilize should be applauded.
Capitalism as well, I believe to be an excellent vehicle for mankind to
move itself into the future also, but if Enron, sub-prime mortgage crisises,
are the status quo, capitalism too, is destined for failure.
Also capitalism doesn't account for everything, and the markets don't fill
all the gaps. Capitalism works well for many, many things. From airplanes
to underwear, food, automobiles, any number of widgets, gizmos and
gadjets, the market will supply demands at competitive prices. However
capitalism does not work mesh well with healthcare, education, poverty
and social issues, etc. These are problems that require patience, altruism,
and compassion. You can't put those into numbers, and you won't find
very many examples of it on Wall street either.
But all of us, bar none, get sick. But the very thought of the word
socialized medicine sends some running to the hills, terrified big brother is
coming. The government is going to make my health decisions. Just
between you and me, what sense does it make to have an insurance
company, who is out to make a profit for themselves, make your
decisions?
America's got some big decisions coming up in her future and I don't think
retreating into our prospective corners of ideological name calling does
anything but turn up the volume so loud you can't hear over the din.
The very essence of democracy itself is socialist. One man, one vote. We
all count, we all live by the decision, together.
Here's another word. You've been misled about.
Liberal:a.Not limited to or by traditional, orthodox, or authoritarian
attitudes or dogmas; free from bigotry.(b)Favoring proposals for reform,
open to new ideals for progress, and tolerant of the ideas and the behavior
of others; broad-minded(c) of and related to the ideals of liberalism.
It's from the Americam Heritage College dictionary.(3rd ed.)
Conservative: Favoring traditional views or values;(2)Traditional or
restrained in style(3)Moderate cautious.
Which best describes the Spirit of our country?
Which best describes our founding fathers?