[John23832]

> Just because something is currently a function of the public sector, does not mean that it could not be achieved better by the private sector.

The exact opposite is often true. Just because something could be done by the private sector, doesn't mean that it could not be achieved better by the public sector.

This idea that the invisible hand of the market will keep us all clothed, fed, healthy and housed is a false one. None of that happens without the subsidies afforded to the private sector by the public. And that is in search of profit.

[palmfacehn]

I would disagree with that on principle and in observation.

However you are missing the point. Even if you suggest that it could be done better by the public sector, the mere existence of the public sector program is not evidence that the public sector solution is optimal. An appeal to the status quo may have pragmatic relevance, but it doesn't rationalize public sector solutions as optimal.

We will have to agree to disagree where you assert that we would all be naked, homeless and starving if not for the public sector.