Soc 490

With the elections just around the corner, there have been many campaigns on the different platforms covered by the candidates. Probably the biggest platform would be health care and whether it should be universal or not. The United States does not have universal health care (also known as socialized health care), but should it be given to everyone on a silver platter? Is health care a right or a privilege?

While both sides of the debate have equal support and points, I am more on the side that health care is a privilege. I am not saying that those who believe it is a right are incorrect, but it is my opinion on the matter; there is no right or wrong here. Health care should not be handed out to people because it does not give any encouragement to those who are not contributing to become better members of  society. It is not fair that people who work hard and strive in life should be given the same benefits as those people who choose not to do anything.

According to Peikoff, Americans should not be in charge of feeding and clothing their neighbors. Yes, it may sound harsh but in all reality, families have a hard enough time providing for themselves let alone individuals who do nothing. It is not fair to hard-working Americans to share a portion of their earnings to save someone who is not attempting any sort of contribution. Handing over health care to those who do not intend to provide any benefits in return, should not be given that privilege.

I am not saying that everyone does not need/want health care, but in order for health care to be accessible to everyone, all must be able to give some sort of contribution. It also takes us into the thoughts of how health care will be given to everyone. Will the government provide it? How will the government attain these funds? The bottom line is that us, the American citizens, will have to provide for these funds and be forced to take care of the other citizens.

Paro pro Romā

Rome, one of the most visited and loved cities in the world, is currently in my backyard. 2 months of history, ruins, and numerous adventures. Though I've been to Italy twice before, in the 5  days we've been here already, I've seen/learned something new every day. The times I visited before, I had felt more like a tourist and had only been exposed to the grandeur of the city. I saw the sites, I ate the food, and I had seen Rome, but this experience is one of a different magnitude. We are all actually attempting to live the Italian lifestyle, and do as they do.

Even though I have only been here for 5 days, I feel like it has been weeks and I can barely remember home. We have immersed ourselves into the Italian lifestyle, feeling less like tourists and more like natives. Sure, we grab our maps from time to time, but I believe the majority of us could make it back to our campus in Castel Gandolfo if we were to get lost. As I feel less like a tourist and more like a native, I have become more aware of the flaws in Rome. I, of course, am not complaining about the flaws (because I find it amazing that I have this opportunity), but I find it interesting that I have been able to notice them.

As Barzini mentions, Rome is like a mother which seems perfect when he is young, but as he grows older, he notices the flaws. He does not stop respecting Rome, he just has a greater perspective. I think that's how I see Rome. When I was younger I was awed by its perfection because I was only a tourist, but now I am able to see its cracks. No matter how many imperfections Rome may have, I still think it is a breathtaking city. Knowing that all I have to do is catch the regional train to Termini Station, jump on the Metro-blue line for two stops until Colosseo, and step out to this sight, is more than a girl could imagine.

I have to admit, I enjoy noticing Rome's certain flaws like public transportation, potential pickpockets, and all-around creepy guys. The public transportation is only so bad because the time schedules are crazy, but the accessibility is great. Today, my friends and I were able to navigate ourselves from a gelato shop to the Trevi Fountain to the shopping district of Rome and back to campus like pros. I guess there isn't anything good about pickpockets except for the fact that my friends and I are on high alert at all times and created a motto, "Come at me, bro!". We're not afraid of that challenge. The all-around creepy guys have not been as prevalent as I had previously remembered, so I am only thankful of that change. Rome has its challenges, but I am more than prepared to handle them!