Why Social Security?

Question

A 32-page Social Security Board booklet was published in 1937 as part of the Board's efforts to educate the American public about the rationale underlying the new Social Security program. It can be read at:

http://www.ssa.gov/history/whybook.html

"SECURITY was attained in the earlier days through the interdependence of members of families upon each other and of the families within a small community upon each other. The complexities of great communities and of organized industry make less real these simple means of security. Therefore, we are compelled to employ the active interest of the Nation as a whole through government in order to encourage a greater security for each individual who composes it....

This seeking for a greater measure of welfare and happiness does not indicate a change in values. It is rather a return to values lost in the course of our economic development and expansion."

Franklin D. Roosevelt: Message of the President to Congress, June 8, 1934.

Answer 1

Social Security makes sure that if we get another Republican Great Depression and people can`t give money to Churches to help people at the very least we will not have soup and bread lines. It also helps people out if they physically cannot be a "self made man"

Answer 2

I am not qualified to say if they should or should not have started it. What I do know is that from day one. When I started working they have taken money from my pay check for this program. I can never live long enough to get it all back. What A crime if when I am 62. All I get is the satisfaction that I helped pay for thousands to enjoy there golden years. Including many retired public employees. That receive Tax exempt P.E.R.S. and social security.

Answer 3

Wow... That's twisted.

Well, the first major communistic government program has fared nicely so far :-P

Answer 4

Roosevelt was not trying to say those values have returned.  He was saying they are gone, justifying the need for Social Security.  Those values are even further gone now.