In the letter I suggest that if we can be forced to wear helmets to reduce health cost, then the state can force us to eat right to prevent obesity and thus reduce costs. Believe it or not, there are some people around who already see this as an option. Toronto Star columnist Frank Jones a few weeks ago wrote a column suggesting the government bring in a special tax on junk food. When Big Brother arrives it will probably be as the voice of fiscal responsibility.
Just before the bill was to become law, it was decided that it would only apply to people under 18. That, along with eliminating photo radar, was one of the few good things Mike Harris did after taking office.
In less than a month, Big Brother further imposes his will upon us, tightening the screws of totalitarianism once again.
Big Brother has decreed that all must wear helmets when cycling. Several reasons have been given, but the one that seems to carry the most weight with people is "Why should I have to pay (health costs) when someone injures themselves by not wearing a helmet"?
For one moment, let me agree. Why should you have to pay if I hurt myself while not wearing a helmet? You shouldn't, however, why should I pay when YOU injure yourself by smoking, not eating right, or not exercising three times a week?
If Big Brother is going to save money making me wear a helmet, then he can save a lot of money by forcing everyone to eat right and exercise regularily. When people are free to choose, they are free to make mistakes, and mistakes cost Big Brother money.
Lets let Big Brother regulate EVERY aspect of our lives, then we can all live and play happily and safely together. Long live Big Brother