Well, it's the only way to be able to dissuade people from programs like welfare and food stamps. Practically, it's the only program that can succeed in doing so in the US. You don't think it would be a better system than we have now where making past a certain amount has a NEGATIVE effect on your income if you're a single mother?
It's better to make closer to $30,000 as a single mother rather than $50,000 - you'll get to keep more of it because you qualify for more government programs.
I think it's easier to disassemble these really perverse incentives if you replace it with something simpler. Then you can reduce social security benefits because of this, then turn to alimony and child support (no longer needed), etc.
You can't do that without first giving an alternative to the status quo
I agree that the current system rewards people for consuming welfare and provides disincentives for them to work, but I don't think making the rest of the working population their slaves through taxes is a moral solution.
I think a better solution would be along the lines of "How can we reduce the barriers of entry so that people can create their own success?" and "How can we shift the cultural motif of society from entitlement mentality to valuing hard work and the benefits that come from it?"
It's better to make closer to $30,000 as a single mother rather than $50,000 - you'll get to keep more of it because you qualify for more government programs.
I think it's easier to disassemble these really perverse incentives if you replace it with something simpler. Then you can reduce social security benefits because of this, then turn to alimony and child support (no longer needed), etc.
You can't do that without first giving an alternative to the status quo