Gary North writes here about the problem of envy, which is at the root of socialism.

A lot of politicians are glad to pander to envy. In the long run, a society that gratifies envy will become poorer and more spiteful, but political elections occur in the short run. Therefore, the John Edwardses of the world can enjoy fame and power in the present and let others in the future deal with the consequences of their repeated playing of the envy card.