One of the purposes of any government is to do for people as a group things that they cannot do for themselves as individuals.  This is a general statement, and there are countless examples of misapplication of this.  Healthcare is a perfect example of something that should be the government's role.  Many "social" programs fit this category, but, alas, it seems that we have devolved into a selfish society in which some view this as some sort of "theft" from them, as they feel they should not have to contribute to the greater and broader good. I've got news for these folks:  The greater good benefits all of us, if even only indirectly, as it renders us more compassionate and considerate of our fellow Americans.  A system in which we fail to take care of all Americans as one, big group borders on anarchy, as some feel they are entitled to direct how their tax dollars are spent, instead of deferring these decisions to elected representatives.  (cont'd.)