Quote:
Originally Posted by kindlekitten
200 years is an extremely short time in the scheme of things. perhaps our memories are long, perhaps we hold dear the addage of "never forget lest history repeat itself". our forefathers learned hard, very hard lessons and left us strict instructions as to their view/concept of government. we simply do not become complacent in the governance of ourselves.
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No, 200 year is not a long time* - but in the latest 200 years we have seen some extremely radical changes to the way we view individual rights as well as the way a government should be run. Perhaps as great changes in the last 200 years as in the last 2000.
What I also don't get, is the impression that one who is recieveing government financial help, such as health care or housing, is reciveing this complacantly, without any feeling of need to reprocicate and pay back. I am personally quite aware of why I pay my taxes. I have gotten a free education, including a stipend to live on, I can get the health care I need - but I am also quite aware I am paying for it.
And I'm paying for it because it allows me a freedom of life that I would not have had, have I had to save up to pay for all the things that is provided. I fell safe that whatever happens it is extremely unlikely I should end up on the street. I have a relatively short work week and can afford to pursue my hobbies and spend time with my family, as well as take a one to two week vacation every year. I'm not 'rich' but I have never been in 'need'. Compared to much of the world I feel quite pampered - but I am also paying for it, and I am engaged in politics because I want influence of this process.
*An example: While the 'wounds' are pretty much quite healed,
1864 is still a significant year in Danish history - a year that most Danes are still aware of in some capacity.