The State takes credit for the altruism of others

...and punishes people for working together.

In many sectors of Society we observe people acting in the aid of others to no apparent benefit to themselves. Unless there are reasons not to, the instinct of most humans is to help others where it is possible to do so. We have many names for this; Charity, Altruism...

The Welfare State aims to provide people who are impoverished with a chance to receive a helping hand. They are assisted by people who are motivated to help, not only to earn money. And it is often the State that takes the credit for these actions although the State had little to do with providing the care.

In the absence of the State many people in the caring profession, education, healthcare etc. would still work in those fields but perhaps for a lesser fee or even for nothing.

This "unpaid" labour received by the State in provision of services to citizens may give the impression that State services are better value (for taxes paid) than in fact they are.


21st Feb'09