Reply #60: Remember that Social Security is not just a cushion for the elderly.

[ozymandius]

Social Security also provides for the disabled. Anyone can fall into this category regardless of age. Disability descriminates neither by economic station nor social status. I know two people who receive disability payments due to horrific genetic and accidental weaknesses that would have them begging on the street in 1938. But because of Social Security's disability feature, they are able to live productive lives. In one instance - one individual is able to attend graduate school to equip himself for a productive future straight onto retirement.

Social Security is a mixed bag of benefits.