zen_tom

I'm glad to see a balance here - I personally veer between being a softie and not giving a rat's ass. I know there's a huge spectrum of difference between being refused assistance because you didn't believe a government warning (in the case of NO) and abusing the welfare system - but I do think people reap what they sow - so whether it's someone buying lobster with their welfare stamps or someone who happened to live in the path of a devastating force of nature - I like to think I'd give them the benefit of the doubt, because everyone has to deal with their own conscience in the end.

I think there is a difference between feeling (rightfully) annoyed at someone who is abusing the system (because it shows a 'fuck you' attitude and general lack of respect for your fellow citizens) and someone who could do with a helping hand. I do think everyone has a conscience, and that ignoring it or denying it leads to all kinds of unhappiness.