The needy and the greedy

I am a republican by practice and a democrat by necessity. Before I retired I worked hard to make a living for myself and my family. At times I worked three jobs when necessary and I never took a diime in unemployment compensation. I believed in the work ethic, much like the republicans profess today. But it comes to my attentionthat this country is conflicted by opposing beliefs to such extent that we are in danger of losing the capitalistic system that has made us great. I refer to our position in providing assistance to those in need.We legislate programs such as social security, health care and unemployment benefits, yet seem to overlook the most basic fundamentals of living.

We cannot throw money into a system with good results unless we understand the real problem. Many of our poorest citizens have tried to cope with survival by turning to crime. Thre are 2.3 million behind bars today, more than any other nation. Although the U.S. comprises less tha 5% of the world population, we have 25% of the world's prisoners. Out of 100,000 citizens we keep 751 in jail.  The median among all nations is 125. The U.S. correctional population - in jail , on probation or parole - totals 7.3 million, or one in every 31 adults. Non whites account for about 70% of the prison population. This is a staggering indictment of our justice system.

The uneven distribution of wealth in this country poses a serious threat to our survival as a capitalistic society.The bulk of money and materials is held by one percent of the population.Recent attempts by the current administration to allow tax breaks for the wealthy to expire has been met with opposition by the republicans. The wealthy rightfully claim that is their money and they are entitled to keep it. Why should they be taxed to support the unemployed?  It is a good aragument, but is self defeating. Unless they are willing to share some of the wealth it may be taken from them at the ballot box. The monied class must change an attitude of greed to one of  need, not only for others but for themselves. They need help from the great middle class who grind the wheels of commerce.Without them, they would be nothing.

Those who sneer at the idea of sharing wealth and call if "socialism" should study the records this country has produced by amassing huge numbers of prisoners held at bay at tremendous costs. We could balance the budget with a signicant reduction of prison inmates. We need better education and job opportunities for those who are caught up in this battle for survival. This is something the wealthy could do. It would be good economics if they would loosen their pursestrings just a little..