This morning I read this essay about a former Rand Paul supporter who, once he had lead poisoning, suddenly had a change of heart about Obamacare. Phil wondered why it is that these people seem to need some personal experience: to have a friend or family member get sick -- or get sick themselves -- before they realize the importance of health insurance. But I know why.
They really believe Ayn Rand. They believe they got everything solely due to their hard work. People who don't have it all are just parasites. Who are they going to listen to? A parasite? If you disagree with them, you're a parasite. And if you're a Randian, you believe like they do.
I don't mind the rich enjoying their ill-gotten gains very much. Oh, it rankles a little. But what really offends me is their need to try to tilt the table ever more in their favor. It isn't enough to win the game -- they want all the pieces. Seeing scumbags like the Koch Brothers or Sheldon Adelson or Dick Cheney who trample all over the poor simply adds insult to injury -- even injury to injury.
They fail to recognize that hard work isn't enough. Luck plays a huge role. Luck. And privilege. Or both. Anyone who doesn't see another person, whether king or beggar, and say, "There but for the grace of God go I" has missed out on a key insight of life.
- Steven D. Brewer's blog
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