To: 2 Kool 2 Be 4-Gotten
Yep, although I think you are way off by several decades. I think we will see forced euthanasia by 2020. Clinton said more than he knew when he said 'it's the economy, stupid'. So, if money becomes the ultimate bottom line and measure of ones worth,(it will come down to ones impact on society), I can readily see some sort of eradication of th elderly when they can no longer pay their own way. When the social gimme of social security began (which was only supposed to be one thing, it was only for elderly but has been expanded to include almost everything now) there were about 14-15 workers for every retired/elderly. It is now down to about 7 or 8. By 2020 or so, it will be down to 1 or 2 workers supporting one elderly. That is not taking into account the welfare handouts(another topic altogether). You really think people who can hardly afford raising their own child or children, and see 3/4 of their income go to 'non-productives' are going to 'take it'?.. I think not. (An out of control population invites control from outside.)
To: tclawnguyland
The possibilities are troubling to say the least - Certainly on the medicare side we're likely to see rationing by queueing - that's seems to be the trend in most countries with "free" medical care. As far as SS goes, there will be higher age limits, more means testing, and expanded payroll taxes I fell reasonably sure. I think the primary trend towards euthanasia will be cultural - i.e. encouraging elderly to "do the right thing" and "take one for the team". I personally feel that the encouragement of illegal immigration that we are seeing is a calculated attempt (and an unwise one at that) to defuse the demographic time bomb. Science (or speculative) fiction writers should be able to come up with any number of future dystopias.
Mostly agree with what you have said.
582 posted on
03/07/2006 10:44:44 AM PST by
2 Kool 2 Be 4-Gotten
(When Bush says "we mustn't act like clowns," the RATS don their multi-colored wigs and greasepaint.)
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