Welfare Limitations

The welfare system became an essential piece of the modern western state
in the middle of the nineteenth century. The welfare state is “founded upon
the principles of progressive taxation and universal welfare” (Bell). Under
this system, “the community as a whole provides for the other, and those in need receive this provision as of right,” meaning that those who have a little more share with those who have a little less. However, this system counters
the fundamental aspects of “the American [Canadian] Dream”: work hard
and attain the freedom to do what you want with your income. Many people oppose the welfare system, claiming that it promotes freeloaders, people who don’t work because they receive what they need from the system. Does the welfare system promote freeloaders? Are there limits to the care we provide for those in need? Does it create a state of helplessness or undeserved entitlement for some? Or are we responsible for the most vulnerable in society?

Reference

Bell, David. “Welfare state expresses an ideal of the good society.” The Guardian. 3 Nov. 2010. https://www.theguardian.com/society/joepublic/2010/nov/03/ welfare-state-ideal-good-society (18 Sept. 2017).