What is the ultimate purpose of a government? More specifically, of the United States government. Is it to provide for the general welfare, to pull together resources for national defense, to keep the economy chugging along, to use utilitarianism to find the greatest happiness for the greatest number of people, or to usher humanity towards the unknown future that lies at the end of technological progress? Something else, or a combination thereof?

I think this question goes even deeper into explaining a politician's actions than whether they are Democrat or Republican, liberal or conservative. That presumes, of course, that the politician in question is in it for more than personal gain. Wow, wouldn't it be great if we could find out somehow who was in office for purely personal gain, and who intends to do the best they can for their constituents?

At any rate, I think part of the problem with the Federal government here is that they try to be all things to all people. I do not believe Washington D.C. was ever meant to be the panacea for our problems. I think the government's most noble purpose is to provide a stable environment which allows personal and business relationships to flourish, and experimentation in both to done with enthusiasm. Following such a guideline, most of the other problems mentioned in the original questions I posed should take care of themselves.