The big secret is social programs are largely to promote stability and prevent civil unrest. The effectiveness at the stated intention is a secondary concern.

The big secret is social programs are largely to promote stability and prevent civil unrest. The effectiveness at the stated intention is a secondary concern. We probably are better off with a basic income style system where people can opt-into public (or private) education, public (or private) medical services, and the balance is paid out to them in cash every month. The cost being recouped via cutting existing programs and raising tax revenues to recapture 100% of the value once you have a 6 figure household income.