Cincinnati

Why don't we set about living up to the idea of freedom from want expressed by President Roosevelt? We should create a guaranteed income for all. People wouldn't have to take jobs that require government assistance to make ends meet. Businesses would have to compete for workers rather than workers competing for jobs! It could easily be done. Tax Social Security to 100 percent of income and invest the money currently given to profitable businesses in tax breaks.

Gradually lower the age of eligibility until we have an income for all. With the spending power generated by this basic income we will grow the economy and create jobs and financial security for all. Welfare and food stamps would no longer be needed and neither would the social safety net. Create an account for all newborns and put their income in it so that when they finish high school they will have the money for college or a good start in life. Imagine what freedom from financial insecurity would allow our citizens to do or create!!! That's Freedom!

Before you get your pants in a bunch over someone getting something for nothing, take note of the fact that 90 percent of our wealthy citizens inherited their wealth and do not lift a finger for their supper. Once taxes are collected they belong to all, so crying about your tax dollars being spent in a way you don't like is a waste of time.

True freedom has to include freedom from want. We can, while maintaining a capitalist system, accomplish this goal. It's only a matter of the will to do so.

Thomas Vance,Alexandria