There are two ways to think about socialism; here’s one

There are two ways to think about socialism; here’s one

EDITOR:

In reply to the letter of Oct. 14 from a gentleman in Salem, I’d like to say a few things that will annoy him, for sure, and many more like him who ignore the history of the world for the last 100 years.

Being a liberal does not mean being an anti-American; we are not dangerous, chauvinist, bigoted, pernicious. We love America as much as the gentleman from Salem.

Do we, as Americans, have the highest standard of living in the history of the world? Look around, sir. Over 50 percent of the nations of the world have adopted many government regulations (socialism), and all of them have surpassed the United States in providing a more equitable distribution of income and social services, including education and health care. A little dose of socialism, or a big dose of it, does not hurt our society; in fact it is going to help.

The gentleman should look at what happened in America in the last eight years, and especially in the last six months. Free enterprise, or as we know it as unregulated capitalism, died a long time ago when dishonest and unscrupulous entrepreneurs guaranteed the end of it, pushing the government more and more into our lives.

Our government has and continues to subsidize many corporations and many rich farmers. Isn’t that socialism? Our Defense Department has and continues to spend many, many billions of dollars in arms and weapons, many of which are sold to nations who will use them against their neighbors and not keeping them in the closet. Look around sir and you will learn some good lessons.

Government intrusion (socialism) is a reality. Welfare programs are a necessity; regulation of banks, Wall Street, insurance companies, and all utilities is a must. If he isn’t already, I am sure the gentleman from Salem someday plans to benefit from some of the best manifestations of socialism: Social Security and Medicare.

Socialism, or you may called it what you like, is a primary force that shapes our lives; it is seen as a more humanistic form of society, a more advanced approach that will be with us for many years to come.

We do need a more powerful and stronger government to help everyone so that they can resolve their problems. When President Reagan spoke about less government because it was the problem and not the solution, he was talking to the puritans of our country and to those who do not care about the rest of our citizens.

I firmly believe that a bigger government that serves the people (socialism) will make our country a better place to live.

VALENTINO DeVITO

Girard

Vote ‘no’ on Issue 5

EDITOR:

Personal rights include managing finances.

A Vindicator editorial Oct. 15 supports Issue 5, which will take away a financial tool that is the easiest and least expensive option for many Ohioans.

Issue 5 is a misguided attempt to ban an industry that is valuable for Ohioans, especially at a time when many are struggling to gain access to credit. These loans may not be right for every person in every circumstance, but they are often a useful tool for people facing an unexpected cash crunch.

Taking away these options doesn’t help consumers. Adults are best served when they can choose among many competing options, not when elitist editorial boards try to eliminate what is for many a crucial financial lifeline.

TIM MILLER, communications director

Center for Consumer Freedom

Washington D.C.