Words have meaning

LIFE - LIBERTY - HAPPINESS

When Thomas Jefferson wrote the Declaration of Independence for the Continental Congress justifying  our decision to stop obeying the Kings Law he gave this as justification for our Revolution.

"We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain inalienable rights, 
that among these are life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness."

I cannot tell you how many times I have read  or heard that line given who have no idea what it means.  It is used to define & justify every possible political philosophy.

This is the meaning that I accept for these words
1. Life -  Reliable source of  food, shelter, medical care and acquisition of life skills.  Once these essentials are provided it is possible to have - -
2. Liberty - the freedom to choose one's on course in life without submitting to the authority of those who control the source of income that we have had to accept simply to provide the essentials of Life. We need to escape  wage-slavery to be free.
3. Pursuit of happiness - happiness in life depends on finding ones passion and having the freedom to make it your path.

I can offer at least one simple solution to the problem. Every person should be given a Basic Income Guarantee that is sufficient to provide food, shelter, and medical care. We can bring every life out of Life threatening poverty and fulfill the promise of Life, Liberty, and the Pursuit of Happiness.

              copyright © William Hodge