I would like to respond to Janet Collins' letter titled "Capitalism." I haven't seen the movie, but I would like to respond to her views on capitalism in general.
There are numerous stories of people falling on hard time. I agree they should be given assistance but only to get them back on their feet as productive individuals again.
The problem with big government and constant handouts is that it destroys people's desire to work hard for a living. They begin to think of it as an entitlement as opposed to a gift. Socialism strips away the individual's need to take responsibility for his or her actions. When you are not held accountable, how can you strive for excellence? How can you try to grow and learn and become the best person you can possibly be? Every time you accept help from someone, whether it be your neighbor or the government, without the intent of paying back the favor, you lose a little bit of yourself and your freedom.
The 1 percent of the population that Ms. Collins refers to may indeed control 95 percent of the wealth, but they also pay 95 percent of the taxes in this country. Taxes should be assessed as payment for services provided to the community. Believe me, that 1 percent is not getting what they paid for. That 1 percent not only pays 95 percent of the taxes, but they own the companies for which the rest of us work. If that 1 percent ever decides to stop participating in our society, the other 99 percent will be in deep trouble. Read "Atlas Shrugged" by Ayn Rand.
Capitalism as an economic system fosters growth, productivity and competition. In a capitalistic society, you must take responsibility for yourself and your actions, or you fail. It may seem cruel, but it is fair and just.
