TANSTAAFL or Something for Nothing

Hal Dunn (johngalt@digital.net)
Sat, 30 Nov 1996 02:12:30 -0500


I think some of the posts on the meaning of TANSTAAFL are very good, but
some of them seem to be missing Heinlein's point. I think he meant that --
one way or another:

- Everything is caused by a reason
- Everything is paid for by someone
- Everything has a cost
- For every action there is an equal -- but opposite -- reaction
- A free lunch is still paid for by someone
- If you think health care is expensive now, wait till it's free (PJ O'Rourke)

Or as Neil Peart said:

"You don't get something for nothing / You can't have freedom for free
You won't get wise / With the sleep still in your eyes
No matter what your dreams might be . . .
What you own is your own kingdom / What you do is your own glory
What you love is your own power / What you live is your own story
In your head is the answer / Let it guide you along
Let your heart be the anchor / And the beat of your own song"

--Lyrics by Neil Peart *Something for Nothing* (Rush "2112")

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In liberty & peace, Hal Dunn (johngalt@digital.net)
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Hal Dunn
hal@intersonic.com