I was listening to NPR's Fresh Air last week and guest Paul Krugman was asked a common question regarding Social Security. "Can't I make more money if I were to invest it instead of the Federal government?". Krugman's response was that the original intention of Social Security was to serve as social insurance program so that there would always be a floor to help people such as the elderly poor, disabled and others. The intent of the program was not for people to get rich, it was to provide a safety net.
I don't think we are hearing this frame regarding SS enough. I am frightened that even when I talk to progressives about the issue the notion of how much money one could make is the first thing brought up and this leads people to think of the debate in terms of an investment or retirement account, not a social responsibility. '
I firmly support the arguments being made by Democrats and others that show how flawed the potential Bush plan in regards to a reduction in benefits, etc. However, should we not also be telling people that preserving SS is the right thing to do? We need SS in order to live in a society that takes care of those less fortunate?