Why should we pay for universal healthcare when so much disease in our country stems from unhealthy behavior like smoking and overeating? Many Americans would welcome higher premiums for those who indulge in unhealthy lifestyles, thereby punishing them for their lack of personal responsibility. But personal responsibility is a complex notion, especially when it comes to health. Unhealthy habits are one factor in disease, but so are social status, income, family dynamics, education and genetics. When people advocate the need for personal accountability, they presuppose more control over health and sickness than actually exists, health experts say.
↧