Socialism and Immaturity

I uncovered a connection while at work the other day. When giving consideration to the root thinking and consequences of socialism, that is, less responsibility and therefore less freedom for the average citizen, I noticed that the same is going on in the workplace. When a company implements draconian "safety rules" as a means of protection, they are removing the need for rational thought in the individual. "Don't think, just obey the rules". The worker has less freedom to make decisions, but then less responsibility for his actions. This is the opposite direction in which we should be moving. The mature man has freedom to act, while also having the maturity to act wisely and handle the consequences of his actions.

I believe this reversal stems from the obsession our culture has with youth. We've become a people who idolize the young. We see this especially in our entertainment and free time. Culture defines beauty and excellence as the young and fit. We exercise, sun tan, botox, hair color and plastic surgery ourselves, tying to look young. We are being treated like the thing we strive to be. To our shame.