>>>>>Liberalization is quickly taking us down to the lowest common denominator. If Johnny can't read then we need to make sure all his classmates can't either so he doesn't feel disenfranchised.
>>>
>>>Is that the answer, then? Liberalization justifies criminalization of religious observance in the pursuit of the neo-catechism that everybody is an idiot? Especially women?
>>
>>They certainly want to treat everyone like an idiot. That way, the 'enlightened ones' can oversee the nanny state.
>
>Agreed.
>Hey wait - what is going on here? This is the 3rd time in 2 weeks I've agreed with you about something. eeek eeek!

It's spreading ;-) I also agree with Bill about a lot of things.

What I also believe is that the nanny state is largely a myth. The government does not control our lives, and does so less all the time. I can only think of one person here who believes in a government that active. The main exception I can think of is kids. A society that stands aside and lets kids go hungry or be abused without protection is beyond reprehensible.

No, now that I think about it that isn't all. There are other roles I think only the government can fulfill. And that doesn't mean school lunches should be monitored and prescribed.

1. The military. Needless to say.
2. Police and fire workers.
3. Infrastructure -- highways, bridges, sewers, and the like.
4. Education of children.
5. Backstopping the banking system. They have proven they can't be relied on to keep their own house clean, or to be anything other than bloodsucking parasites.
6. The judicial system. Jails and prisons to keep the nuts away from the rest of us.
7. Tax collection. This is a hot button for some but where is the money to pay for the above supposed to come from, thin air?

I am sure there are some I am forgetting. And there are other government activities I appreciate without considering essential. Underwriting of the arts. Grants and scholarships to college students, who are our future. National parks. The postal service, which is the best and cheapest in the world no matter how much people like to b***h about it. Funding of scientific research. It isn't all evil.

The one specific thing I agree with the Paul Ryans of the world about is entitlement programs like social security and Medicare. We should not be giving money to those who do not need it. But oh boy, don't suggest that. Any politician who seriously suggests that will be hanging in the public square in about an hour.