Monday, May 17, 2004

David Frum writes on the subject of Sweden:

And so today as in 1800, a grand aristocracy of career politicians, civil servants, and favored businesses benefit from the system: the prime minister lives in an 18th century palace compared to which 10 Downing Street looks like a cramped little rowhouse. The middle class has grown much larger, but no more independent than it was 150 years ago: They pay two-thirds or more of their incomes in taxes and so are placed in a position of almost absolute dependency on the state in their old age...

One would think from the description that old people in Sweden end up providing slave labor to the state. But no; Frum is of course referring to Sweden's generous pension system. Think of the language: old people are not "provided for," they are "placed in a position of almost absolute dependency."

I don't know about you, but when I think of old people, I think of healthy, robust individuals who need to get out there and get jobs. This "pension" and "Social Security" stuff is bullshit. Away with you, geezer welfare queens!

2 Comments:

At 4:18 PM, Anonymous Anonymous said...

what a beautiful slogging of david frum. you get nothing less than a standing ovation from me!!

-a

 
At 5:34 PM, Blogger alex said...

always ready to please :)

 

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