Reply #67: You're being sarcastic, right? Geez, I hope so... [View All]

[benEzra]

Well yes, and then tax the hell out of all risky behaviors and put the tax money into the health care pot.

You're being sarcastic, right? I sure hope the hell you are.

I don't smoke, drink, or do other drugs--except 1,3,7-trimethylxanthine:)--but I personally believe in the maxim that most progressives USED to believe in, that of my body, my choice. You know, "keep your laws off my body"?

The government does NOT exist to dictate the private behavior of consenting adults. Period. Believing otherwise is a throwback to a medieval, pre-Enlightment mentality.

FWIW, in the long run, somebody who dies at age 55 from smoking will cost the health care system a lot less than somebody who lives to age 95. Eating too much or failing to exercise enough, however, DO drastically raise the price of care over the patient's lifetime. I suppose the government could fine you an exorbitant amount if you don't run three times a week, too...