[super7man]

This may not be relevant to this thread, but it occur ed to me this morning, that when charity is given from individual to individual the receiver is grateful but when government gives to the individual, it's never enough.

[YankeeReb]

This may not be relevant to this thread, but it occur ed to me this morning, that when charity is given from individual to individual the receiver is grateful but when government gives to the individual, it's never enough.

Very true. I think it's because the receiver looks the giver in the eye, and knows that the giver doesn't have an endless supply of resources. If the receiver has any self respect, he feels obligated to pay it back either directly, or by doing onto others once he gets on his feet. Because of the personal connection the receiver is often inspired to better himself. This is why INDIVIDUAL (as opposed to collective) charity is encouraged in the Bible, it has the potential to better both sides.

With a faceless government program, there is no connection. The "giver" (taxpayer) feels robbed, and the receiver feels entitled.