Quote:
Originally Posted by BlueStreak
Well, it's a little hard to explain things like old age benefits, social safety nets and the like to infants and fetuses (fetusi?), and obtain their consent to receive a SS number, now isn't it? 
All I know is, I've had one since birth and never found it to be an issue at all.
I've been contributing since age 18 and would at least like to get my money back someday. Preferably when I need it most, which I surmise will be after I am too old and crotchety to work anymore.
Dave |
So you're holding out until the old part gets here.
With respect to your comments on the religions having their own form of social contract - as I have mentioned before, I picked up a book called "The Political Teachings of Jesus," which I have been trying to read, but keep getting distracted by things like a John Lennon biography, a Studs Terkel book on death and dying, and a Mickey Mantle Biography. In any event, the thesis of the book is that the teachings of Jesus, disregarding the religious meaning, provide a pretty good framework for organizing a society. I'll have to get back to you on the author's full development of that thesis.
Finally, as far as the consent of those operating under the social contract - the consent is implied. We live under a social order that restrains violence against one another, that protects one's property, and that operates for the general welfare of the people. We trade unrestrained action for security, and by co-existing in a civil society are presumed to have consented to the obligations of maintaining it.
Regards,
D-Ray