Dependency on government is deliberately encouraged by the political class. It is the quid pro quo for voting for Santa Claus, a siren song of both parties but especially perfected by Democrats. The practice works well for the political class. For recipients, it is a means of support without the necessity of labor. But it is also the road to perdition which entraps generations of families.

Given the vagaries of life, a “helping hand” can be rationalized. Whether it should be provided by government is less clear. When it is accepted as a legitimate role of government, the system is “gamed” from both sides. Politicians bribe voters in exchange for goodies. The “entrepreneurial” poor use it as a means to a comfortable life without work or responsibility.

Unconscionable politicians think only of their re-election. The addictive bribery scheme and its effects is of little concern to them so long as they are paid (with votes). Just as drug dealers feign concern for the junkies they serve, politicians pretend in similar fashion. Neither dealers nor politicians have any concern about distributing their “crack” so long as the payments continue.

Animals, not blessed with man’s intelligence, know instinctively not to engage in such practices as Thomas Sowell observed:

Even squirrels know enough to store nuts, so that they will have something to eat when food gets scarce. But the welfare state has spawned a whole class of people who spend everything they get when times are good, and look to others to provide for their food and other basic needs when times turn bad.

Nor are there animals who prey in such a clever fashion on other animals. Nature may be cruel, but it does not mislead and deceive. Unfortunately the foxes that we elect to office don’t care what happens to others when times ultimately turn bad.

The entitlement enslavement of generations is considered collateral damage in the rottenness known as politics. A political tool that destroys lives, so long as it furthers the fortunes of the political class, is considered fair in the game where the rules are set by the rulers. Those trapped in the system are the victims of the foxes. The destruction imposed on the economy via such policies is also unfortunate.

Real foxes may or may not have a conscience; political foxes do not. When things collapse, and we are rapidly approaching that point, these foxes will escape into the woods with provisions while the squirrels will be left to starve.

Where is Aesop when we need him? A modern day fable is needed to expose this unrestrained cupidity, callousness, exploitation and blatant abuse of power and office.