"The equal rights of man, and the happiness of every individual, are now acknowledged to be the only legitimate objects of government. Modern times have the signal advantage, too, of having discovered the only device by which these rights can be secured, to wit: government by the people, acting not in person, but by representatives chosen by themselves, that is to say, by every man of ripe years and sane mind, who contributes either by his purse or person to the support of his country." --Thomas Jefferson

The noble words of he who would treat other men as property.

Its the idea that persists, not the man.

Does the idea persist? Did the idea ever truly take hold? Was there ever truly a government of the all of the people? I would not be so bold as to quote Jefferson.

When have you known all the people to agree on anything?

I have always known that all of the people want employment, all of the people want to sleep under a roof, all of the people want to feed their children, all of the people want a good education, all of the people want equal wages for equal work, all of the people want basic medical care. When has the happiness of every individual been the object of government? Furthermore, does our govenment do the collective will of the people? Has it ever?

I don't believe that "all of the people want employment, all of the people want to sleep under a roof, all of the people want to feed their children, all of the people want a good education, all of the people want equal wages for equal work, all of the people want basic medical care'. If that were the case then they would certainly have all those things. Too many of the folks you are advocating do not participate in the process and are therefor not heard. Do not blame democracy for those who do not take it upon themselves to make their lives better. The road is there for those who wish to see it and follow it.

Its folks like yourself who hold these people back by not allowing them the chance to live their lives to the fullest based on personal responsibility, fortitude and hard work. The gov't souldn't be anyones care taker, its another form of slavery, because you depend on another entity for your existance.

Breaking it down it looks like this: Give a man a fish and he eats for a day (your idea of gov'ts role), teach a man to fish and he eats for a life time (my idea of gov'ts role).

You feel that humans wish to starve in abject squalor? Nay, you have much to learn about humanity and it's nature. Until that time, we have nothing to discuss.

EDIT: I have never once detailed my political leanings or views on this forum. Do not presume to tell me what they are, for you know not.

Adeu

You are correct, I do not know your political leanings. I apologize if I lumped you in with America's current slave holders.