The random political thoughts thread (Part Deux)

[Prudence]

So, instead of the government using legal force to require monetary contributions the church uses spiritual force to the same end. I don't see how this is any different or disproves my theory that individuals, without some sort of external coercion (whether by threat of jail or threat of eternal hellfires), generally leave the public service to someone else.

Now, you may feel that this coercion is more appropriately left to the churches. However, not everyone belongs to churches, and churches are not interested in helping all people. We are, on the other hand, all residents in this country, and the government is theoretically supposed to treat us all equally. I realize that the government isn't the poster child for efficiency and fiscal restraint, but I'd rather take my chances there.