Costs of Medical Miracles

Jonathan Swift sought to shame his fellow countrymen into correcting the egregious ills of the 18th Century in his famous satire, “A Modest Proposal.” Swift’s diabolical plan to eliminate starvation, overpopulation and unemployment was simple, rational and entirely cost effective: Let’s eat our children.

After having read Lamm’s essay, it no longer seems surprising to me that some people took the entirely tongue-in-cheek Swift seriously. According to Lamm, old people aren’t cost-effective. “Chronic disease at the end of life is far more expensive than acute disease (from which presumably one dies) in midlife.” Once again, “sound” fiscal policy appears to be the modest proposal. Perhaps the aged are not as tender as 1-year-old children, but I’m getting out my knife and fork!

LORNA M. SCHILL

San Fernando