Entitlement programs by many other names would be sweeter

By Richard K. Barry

I don't know where the term "entitlement programs" comes from, but it certainly helps shape the budget debate in the Republican's favour. As we all know from common usage, people who feel 'entitled' are surely not people who are deserving of our assistance. They are spoiled takers who can never get enough. What's the problem with asking these ne'er-do-wells to take a little less? Why, it's no problem at all.

From this point on, I propose that we call entitlement programs "just society programs." At least when people talk about cuts in these terms, they will have to contemplate the fact that they will be making society less fair.

That may not slow many of the Tea Partiers down, but it will make me feel better.