I've had this concept bouncing around in my head for a while now, but could never quite articulate it to my own satisfaction, so I just jotted down the super-mega-ultra-condensed cliffs notes version. I think the concept is clear enough though.
Government programs, peoples fears, and the end results.
Program: Income tax
Government: "TAX THE RICH!"
People: "Slippery slope...soon you'll be taxing everyone!"
Government "Oh, pooh! It's ONLY .5% levied on incomes over X amount which is only made by the top 1% of the rich. Quitcher fearmongering."
End result: You tell me.
Program: Social Security
Govt: "Guaranteed retirement money!"
People: "National ID number..mark of the beast!"
Govt: "Oh, pshaw!! Quitcher fearmongering."
End result:You tell me.
Program: Welfare (in all it's various forms)
Govt: "Safety net!"
People: "Hammock for lazies!"
Govt: "Nonsense...Quitcher fearmongering."
End result: You tell me.
Program: Healthcare (finance) reform
Govt: "Universal coverage! Healthcare for all!"
People: Higher costs. Rationing. Forced joining"
Govt: "Myths.....Quitcher fearmongering."
End result: DUH!!!
You must watch this concerning the proposed Goverment Health Plan. I don't even know this guy but I would vote for him.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G44NCvNDLfc&feature=player_embedded