The Birther movement is just one aspect of the End Times Movement. There is no doubt that their belief we are in End Times makes it harder to accomplish many of the worthy goals folks advocate for here.
There must something in human nature that makes End Times predictions believable and attractive. It is not just a Christian construct. Other religions have prophecies about the end of the world too.
If you believe the world will end shortly and you will go to heaven, there is no need for so many of the things good government should provide. Retirement? Care for the illnesses of ageing? Good education for children? Who needs any of this if the end of the world is just around the corner?
Many of the folks who believe in End Times find it tempting because their current life is full of want. Their church fills the emptiness with a promise of a glorious time any day now. Good health care or a secure retirement pales beside the promise of paradise, especially if paradise can be expected before the end of Obama's term in office..
There is no reason this belief should lead to opposing national health care or social security but somehow a significant number of Americans do.
Is there any way to convince End Times Believers to help themselves?