NOTE:  The issue of how the health care crisis should be solved is very controversial:

• The three leading Democratic presidential candidates all want to achieve universal or near universal health insurance coverage.  They are willing to put substantial federal money into health care reform.  The Republicans are not.  The Democrats generally want to expand government health insurance programs and give the federal government a greater role in regulating the insurance industry.  The Republicans generally want to shrink federal programs and free the insurance industry from what they consider regulatory shackles.  Instead of universal health insurance, Republicans propose solutions like a $15,000 family tax deduction for purchasing your own health insurance and/or tax credits for health savings accounts.
• Read a brief explanation of both sides of the health care debate at balancedpolitics.org under the title "Should the Government Provide Free Universal Health Care for All Americans?"

1.  Define the following words as used in the commentary:
--apocalyptic (from paragraph 1)
--catastrophic (from para. 7)
--mandate (from para. 7)

2.  What is the main point of Mr. Stossel's commentary?

3.  In paragraph 9, Mr. Stossel says: "Insurance is a lousy way to pay for things."  Why does he think so?  Do you agree or disagree with his statement?  Explain your answer.

4.  Do you think Mr. Stossel make any valid points?  Explain your answer.

5.  Share Mr. Stossel's commentary with a parent.  Discuss your opinions about the answer to question #4.