> IN 1996, GEORGE BELL hurt his left shoulder and spine lifting a desk on a moving job, and his life took a different shape. He received approval for workers’ compensation and Social Security disability payments and began collecting a pension from the Teamsters. Though he never worked again, he had all the income he needed.
Sometimes, having income without effort is death in life.
I think the point is that Bell, who already tended toward introversion, no longer could (due to injury) nor had a need (due to not needing to work) to go outside and socialize.
That said, having an income was probably the biggest factor - that kind of back injury does not keep one from going out. I agree that his compensation is earned - but that sort of support has side effects on both the recipient and the rest of society. When taxes and regulation can be expected to take up the slack, people tend toward individualism and communities wither. Compare the strength of families and communities over the last 100 years. While good government can provide financial assistance, like how communities used to, it rarely provides the human socialization that communities do.
Really? Before socialized welfare, your place within the community was entirely tied to your working ability. Too old to farm? Go sleep under the stairs. Then take a walk in the forest in winter and don't come back.
Sometimes, having income without effort is death in life.