Everything today is a grift. For example, many states have proposed sending pre-filled tax forms out lining what you owe or are owed based on known data (such as mortgage reporting and 1099s, W2s, etc.). You just sign if you agree and pay or get your refund. H&R Block and Intuit (TurboTax) do not want that to happen. They want it as complicated as possible so they can charge you for assistance.

Insurance — also a bunch of bullshit. Clinics are allowed to charge different rates to different people and the insurance is expected to negotiate it down. For example an MRI scan costs $500 out of pocket (cash paid by patient) but if you use insurance, suddenly the clinic says the cost is $1000. Meanwhile single payer systems have been shown to reduce costs and improve care. But those middle men want their money! See also the screwed up world of pharmacy benefits.

High speed rail — next to impossible in the US because airlines and car manufacturers and the trucking industry don’t want the competition.

Etc. Etc. Etc.

[–] dumblederp@aussie.zone 4 points 14 hours ago

In Australia my tax takes about ten minutes of next-ing through prefilled data, adding a few expenses and crypto.