We - and by we I mean the Western world and most especially the USA - have a nasty habit of forgetting some of the past history that makes us uncomfortable. This is especially true when it comes to the Middle East. The current situation in Egypt can trace its roots back to just after WWII.

What would happen if you were put into a store that had everything you needed or wanted or could possibly use and were told just take what you need or want and the only thing you had to do was leave something of value there. Either something you made or grew or some service you can provide. No money or anything.

I am what one would call a liberal-libertarian. At least that's what the political compass says. I tend to be socially conservative and economically very left of center. I don't like the terms progressive or liberal since their means are too open to interpretation.  I do favor more local control and implementation of various social and economic programs, and this piece by Sam Smith sums up my thoughts on this quite well. here are a few excerpts from it, with my thoughts as well.