Nice to give each other gifts because we like each other, not because we have judged others to be deficient and needing a fish OR needing to be taught how to fish.

That said, a few modest, well-managed social programs seem desirable. IMO, the ultimate social program would be a guaranteed subsistence income for everyone, funded by a massive public trust fund invested in stocks and bonds.

If everyone knows how to fish how will fishermen make a living ????

I smoke so yes I give homeless people money or cigarettes, depending.
By teaching someone, in this day and age you're only slightly putting them in a better position. I don't disagree that you should teach but I do believe that a good majority will still need assistance of some sort.

Sounds like Ayn Rand type philosophy. At the same time, I don't think charity is the answer.

I have to say it, I am that guy! And what's more, I am backed up by our local charities for the homeless. We are advised to NOT to give money to those begging on the street but instead give to organised homeless charities who don't just hand out a meal but try to get people back on their feet by educating them on where and how to get proper social housing and benefits to enable them to settle back into life and fend for themselves (teaching them how to fish). @DonThiebaut if your response is anything like the rude, insulting and aggressive responses you gave to the original guy, then don't expect a reply, I don't engage in those type of school yard arguments.

Drumpster!

You have my word, that could never happen.

Ah, the 12 year old boy, libertarian utopia fantasy where there is plenty for all should they just do the work to have it. Such utter bullshit, and a very poor, thinly veiled excuse for greed as the epitome of their morality. Or lack thereof. ie. assholes

I wonder who , if he voted in 2016, voted for.

What’s wrong with giving the fish while teaching? This person is irrational. Helping some is destroying them? This guy is an ass.

Update 1.
This is a guy I had previous run-ins with. He ascribes to a far-right libertarian ideology that preaches for removing any and all social aid programs, and has said worse. Here's our convo, after he decided to wave his anonymous status. I got a bit heated.

How about some thoughts and prayers. That always works so well.

It’s a heartless excuse to not care.

What a jerk.