Steal Your Property

The U. S. Supreme Court just expanded the ability of local governments to confiscate your property. Thus, the great debate continues over the proper roll of government, to say nothing of the proper function of the highest court in the land. Should government be socialistic, capitalistic, or some combination thereof? Those who argue for socialism believe that society should be primarily responsible for the welfare of each of its members at the cost of all members. The problem with socialism is that it is never administered evenly. Some pay much more, and some pay little to none at all. Those who argue for capitalism believe that the greatest standard of government is to stay out of the way of individuals such that each can reap the just rewards of his individual efforts. The problem with pure capitalism is that it does not provide for the basic life supporting needs of those lacking a support system through no fault of their own. Time has shown that a healthy society needs a little of both.

The U. S. Supreme Court, in the case of Kelo v. New London, just made a big push in the direction of socialism. The case expanded the parameter of eminent domain from public use to public benefit. Government may now take your property and turn it over to another private individual, who will make a profit from its use. Government, of course, expects to benefit from the receipt of tax receipts exceeding that which you were paying.

Thomas Sowell, a preeminent thinker, addresses the eminent domain issue here.