From each according to his ability; to each according to his need

The famous maxim "from each according to his ability; to each according to his need" is attributed to Marx and is the core principle of socialism. It seems slightly distasteful that Labour MPs, from a party committed to Democratic Socialism, see it appropriate to take material goods regardless of their need, perhaps more distasetful than Conservatives funding taxpayers for moat-cleaning (after all Conservative ideology is based on the individual and self-determination; their MPs have simply lived up to their selfish ideals).

It is somewhat true that the expenses debacle has been completely blown out of proportion to the point of obsession. It is a symptom of a wider, systemic problem. If the government and politicians in general were taking moral actions and decisions with greater public support, the electorate would have little issue with such matters. It is unlikely that Churchill and Attlee, even Heath and Wilson would be harangued for taking liberties with expenses payouts. It is the impression of politicians - not just the media - that makes this scandal so much worse. It is the failure by all major parties to acknowledge defeat. No one wants Trident to be replaced; no one supports the morally hollow foreign policy agenda; no one wishes financial ruin on graduates; no one wants ID cards and detention without charge.