The Welfare State: Too many takers -- not enough givers

The Irish cabdriver complained almost nonstop during our half-hour drive to the Belfast International Airport. He especially worried about the job prospects for his 20-something son and, for that matter, about those for the generation of young people who face a “sh-tty” future on this beautiful island full of friendly people.

“Give me,” I finally said, “the No. 1 reason for the economic problems here.”