The Welfare State

[Gavmacp]

I am probably more left than right. But my politics doesn't stop me reading articles that I may disagree with as I like a balanced and reasoned view. I read an article from someone that was against the welfare state (this was many years ago so cannot provide a link). But it made an impression on me. What he was saying that because we don't pay for certain things (yes I know TAXES) we don't value them. I think he was correct in many ways.

[Zacs-Master]

Nae bovver.

[Old_Geezer]

I don't believe one can assume that it is generally true that things given are not valued. There may be a tendency to be most concerned about things you fought or sacrificed for, but that doesn't make it true that we aren't grateful for the things society offer as a group funded necessity. Certain individuals may have warped attitudes but most see the value. Maybe your writer was stating how they felt themselves.

[Cloverjo]

I know that some people abuse the welfare state and are happy to sit around not working, but I believe that most people are grateful for the help while they sort themselves out.
I was a single mother on benefits years ago, and am still grateful for that help. I now work and pay taxes, and so does my son.