Derid, so since we agreed that we cannot end social programs, and we indeed need some for our society to continue cooperative (peacful) existence, the only question is what level of social programs do we need to maintain?

Do you want to discuss any specific programs? I am uncomfortable with "Clinton-era" budget estimates, not only this is fixed number, not adjusted by inflation, it also does not discuss priorities and use of these social programs...

Let me elaborate on this more. Hypothetical example - US implemented single-player health care system and merged medicare, VA into this program. Overall costs projected at 11% of GDP (down from 15%) and are now collected as value-added tax. Overall per-person costs go down from $7500 per year to $5000 per year per person.

If you look in absolute social outlays, numbers will increase. If you look at % of GDP numbers will decrease. If you look at per person costs number will decrease.

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