Good article. I would point out that the basis for this “self-reliance” and “voluntary cooperation” and charity is the Bible and the example of Christ. We take responsibility for ourselves and others because the Bible says we should. See Proverbs and the four Gospels for concentrated forms of these ideas. I’m just pointing out that the ethos described in the article predates a free society as we know it and can and will survive any tyranny.
Well, not always. I am agnostic, and I don’t do anything just because the Bible tells me to do it. However, the Bible and christianity teach good morals and upstanding behavior.....very good virtues. I try to follow those teachings, but it’s by my own moral compass.