Social Security has been controversial for a as long as I can remember.

This is a serious and relevant issue. Just look at your paycheck. Then read about what state Social Security is not only in now, but will be in, in the future.

I started this thread because of the energetic discussions going on in the "Aids" thread in Issues.

SS is real: we are forced to pay into it.

Many of my family members (even my mother) receive it, now.

SS is heading toward insolvency as Greenspan and Bernanke frequently remind us in their public statements.

As Surasak noted, out of a 40 hour week, 6 hours go into Social security. This is 15%.

Taxes on SS will be going up. Just do the math.

Tens of millions of baby boomers are now entering the rolls of SS.

So.....

What should be done?

Personally, I don't think I should pay into it, because at 37, I'll likely lose money on it if you look at average life expectancy, the amount paid it, the age I receive it (67), and this age will be raised.

No thanks, I'll pass.

How about you? What do you think?