Just saw a GREAT question about ethics

[paleotn]

4. Thus, we have governments. Which are really just us banding together for the common good

The concept of demand sharing. Each of us can give something, no matter how small, so other's may survive. Letting members of the band, tribe, clan or nation starve is not good for anyone, since it weakens us collectively and one day it might be us. The basis of the modern insurance model. But really, that's as old as dirt. There's evidence for that in our Neanderthal cousins as well. The band takes care of members who can no longer provide for themselves, either for a short time or permanently.

That does bring up another ethical dilemma though, freeloading. If one can contribute to the group, but refuses, can we withdraw support? The basis of the "welfare queen." Another concept as old as dirt. Our ancestors policed that pretty effectively. In a vastly more complex society, that's more difficult. Personally, I don't care if there are a few free riders, as long as the greater number of people who need the aid get it. Republicans would starve everyone just to ensure those few freeloaders don't get what they don't deserve.