I thought the idea that people were better at allocating money from themselves is more like:
are you better off if I give you $1k no string attached or $1k specifying down to the cent how you are to use it?
Generally speaking people know what their needs are and how to balance them more than complete strangers or even, often, friends. Yes, people have weaknesses, but to try to rule over their weaknesses is highly paternalistic and demeaning. Moreover because of the fungibility of money, in the end often the person will find a way to spend an equivalent batch of the same money in the way they would have anyways.
Not exactly. Food stamps can only be spent on food, but you can determine what food you buy. Financial Aid must have tuition(and often books) deducted before the remainder is deposited into your account. Your company may pay for your hotel room and meal, but only a room at a 3-star hotel or lower and a $20 meal at a casual dining establishment.
It's not as black and white as you guys put it. Strings can exist, but how much they control you can vary greatly.
I agree his statement appeared to be making a black and white argument. Your reply seemed to be further defining the concept behind his statement. Perhaps you were redefining it and I misinterpreted it.
Much like how slave owners worked the cotton fields themselves, with the superficial detail of the work having passed through the body of a slave first.
are you better off if I give you $1k no string attached or $1k specifying down to the cent how you are to use it?
Generally speaking people know what their needs are and how to balance them more than complete strangers or even, often, friends. Yes, people have weaknesses, but to try to rule over their weaknesses is highly paternalistic and demeaning. Moreover because of the fungibility of money, in the end often the person will find a way to spend an equivalent batch of the same money in the way they would have anyways.