It simply Isn't as clear cut as you suggest. Of course there are people as you describe but you cannot tar everyone with the same brush. I witnessed the demise of so many jobs as Unions made and got excessive pay rises, I have seen plenty of wasters too, not bothered about working hard but all wanting the latest mobile phone or designer item. Properly incentivised jobs are the best way to satisfy the majority providing they have a basic work ethic. The trouble with your success scenario is that being careful or tight depending how you see it, often means that the individuals never really reap the rewards of their efforts it goes instead to the offspring. People work to live not live to work and some enjoyment/relaxation is good considering you only live once. Go back a few years and watching a football match was common for the 'working class' Now a season ticket is so expensive as players are paid ridiculous sums, that forces people to watch on TV and guess what that costs a fortune too. How would the majority cope if they had to pay for their own medical services? how many could actually afford the insurance costs even with a lower tax rate. The balance is all wrong.