In 2011, “payments for individuals,” including health care, constituted 65% of federal spending, up from 21% in 1955. That’s the welfare state.
Yet, the subject is virtually taboo. Because Americans disapprove of government handouts, we don’t even call the welfare state by its proper name, preferring the blander term “entitlements”…
Granting the welfare state’s virtues — the safety net alleviates poverty and cushions the effects of recessions — it’s time to pose some basic questions. Who deserves support? How much? How long? How much compassion can society afford?
via Welfare State, No Matter what You Call It, Is Breaking America.