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You're getting downvoted for your comment on ridicule and disdain. If you read the article, this is one of the reasons Paul gained so much weight - the ridicule

You're getting downvoted for your comment on ridicule and disdain. If you read the article, this is one of the reasons Paul gained so much weight - the ridicule and rejection. So I'm not so sure that's the answer. However, you are on point about society's tolerance and enablement. You rarely see this type of thing in non-welfare states. Most are uncomfortable talking about this because we're humans and have compassion. On the surface, it seems like a mean spirited thing to suggest that tolerance and social programs have unintended consequences and are detrimental to the recipients. An example is how welfare has often become a surrogate for a two parent household. I think most would agree that obesity and (generally) single parent households are damaging to both individuals and society as a whole. How do we find a balance that doesn't allow folks to fall through the cracks, but also doesn't encourage behavior that takes a toll on human beings or compromise the sustainability of social safety nets?

reddytowns 10y ago
As I said in the other thread, I think that family should play a bigger role in charity of a relative. If the person receiving care has to face those giving it, it'd be better for both parties. In countries in Asia, there is a much lower social safety net, but IMO family, friends, and neighbors have a far greater bond then they do in the USA (naming the two places I have experience with). If I could choose I'd have a charity system which is paid for in greater proportion by the people related to the beneficiary than everyone else. Your brother can't find a job? We tax you more to pay for him. Although, I don't think society would accept this idea.
- kolinko 10y ago
  Works only for people in well functioning families.
  - reddytowns 10y ago
    Nothing is perfect. Better let a few fall than many suffer. I don't think letting this man get this way is a success for our society in preventing suffering.

reddytowns 10y ago

As I said in the other thread, I think that family should play a bigger role in charity of a relative. If the person receiving care has to face those giving it, it'd be better for both parties. In countries in Asia, there is a much lower social safety net, but IMO family, friends, and neighbors have a far greater bond then they do in the USA (naming the two places I have experience with). If I could choose I'd have a charity system which is paid for in greater proportion by the people related to the beneficiary than everyone else. Your brother can't find a job? We tax you more to pay for him. Although, I don't think society would accept this idea.

kolinko 10y ago
Works only for people in well functioning families.
- reddytowns 10y ago
  Nothing is perfect. Better let a few fall than many suffer. I don't think letting this man get this way is a success for our society in preventing suffering.