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.