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January 25, 2005

A Contest of 'Ends' as well as 'Means'

Reform is a game of "ends” and “means”. When it comes to Social Security, I believe that our adversaries on the political Left are very clear about their ends, although they will not talk about them openly. We in the “pro-growth” camp must be equally clear about our ends—our values and goals—and we must shout them from the rooftops. We also must never lose sight of our ends during the coming battle over Social Security reform “means”. I believe that what the Creator expects from each one of us is to become ourselves to the greatest possible extent—to fully express in the world our individuality and gifts. So too is it with nations. I believe that to be truly herself, America must be an “ownership society” and not a “welfare state”. Other nations may make “comfort” or “economic security” their ultimate value, but America stands for freedom. To be free, a citizen must have ownership and control of the economic resources required to live. An individual who is dependent upon a government welfare program for his survival is not free—he is afraid. To be truly herself, America must be a high-growth, high-opportunity society with a vibrant private sector and limited government. Adult citizens must be autonomous individuals with responsibilities as well as rights. Because Social Security now commands such a large portion of our economy, it is important to reform it in a way that increases the freedom, autonomy, and economic opportunities of the American people. Increased individual freedom, greater personal autonomy, and increased economic growth should be our “ends” in Social Security reform. As we move forward, we can certainly be sure that the political Left will be doing their best to take Social Security reform in the opposite direction—toward a bigger welfare state, higher taxes, and more government dependency. We in the “pro-growth” camp must not lose sight of our ends during the coming battle over means.

Posted by at January 25, 2005 2:31 PM | Print