Tethered Citizens

Book excerpt: “How tethered are you?” That’s what Sheldon Richman starts out asking in this indispensable book laying bare “the theory and practice of the welfare state.” Chances are Richman’s answer will widen the eyes even of those who think they’re familiar with the welfare state’s milestones, such as the New Deal. The author digs deeper, unearthing not just milestones but also the very foundation stones of the welfare state. And he shows how deeply welfare-state thinking has penetrated American society. This book exposes the dangers that Americans face with the prospect of socialized medicine. Bringing together the thoughts of twelve eminent advocates of the free-market philosophy, The Dangers of Socialized Medicine explains in an easily readable, well-reasoned way how government policies have caused America’s health-care crisis and why a complete separation of health care and the state is the only real, long-term solution. This book prescribes the tough medicine that Americans need to take to achieve a healthy, prosperous, and free society. What distinguishes Richman’s account of the welfare state is his own consistent adherence to a philosophy of reason and individual rights. He doesn’t compromise — and he sees clearly how others who would defend freedom have compromised, and fatally. The author doesn’t confine himself to attacking welfarism; he also demonstrates the virtue and power of individualism, property, and competition. Richman shows that economic competition is nothing more or less than peaceful cooperation in a climate of freedom.