Equality?

[steelish]

Yes they were poor examples I agree. I did not want to spend much thought debunking proverbs. People using proverbs to support their argument in a political discussion always seems to me like those the Southern lawyers who quote the scriptures to prove their case - it's makes for good drama and showmanship but is a load of hogwash. This is why politicians steer clear of them - they get nailed.

Anyhow back to the point. You claim people do not value that which is obtained at no cost to themselves.

- Do you value this website - you did not pay for admission.

Actually, I did...in the form of the internet service in my home. I could not access it without that.

- Do you value the posts and posters on here for which you have given thanks.

Yes, and they probably (likely) had to pay for internet access as well. If they didn't, then they had to find a way to get somewhere to have a computer with internet access.

- Does the hungry man value the food from the soup kitchen or bed at the hostel.

I would hope so...because SOMEONE payed for it.

- Does the hitchhiker value the ride he gets.

I would hope so...for the same reason. It wasn't free. The driver put gas in his car. He's putting mileage on his car. I would hope the hitchhiker appreciates it.

- Do people go intro stampede mode at stores when the word "free" is mention.

Hmmmm...must be a UK thing. Stores in the US don't give away FREE things.

- Did you value your allowance - (the one you got without having to work for it)

I never got an allowance for doing nothing. I could have sworn I've already made that point clear.

- Do people value the sermom and service they get at the church.

I'm sure they do. They put on their Sunday best (clothing they purchased with churchgoing in mind) and drive (gas, mileage) to church. But then, that's not free is it.

- Will you value the wedding ring you get(got)

I'm pretty sure my husband paid for it.

- Are all of the above definable and finite products, services and commodities.

Yes, they are.

I think the answer to all of the above is Yes. And all were obtained for FREE.

No, not free. I think I've established that. Just because someone benefited from a couple of them and did not have to pay directly for them does not make them free.

There's no such thing as a free lunch. Someone, somewhere has to pay for it.