I think you confuse "uncaring" with opposition to hand-outs on the citizen's tax dollars. Many of us who you may feel are uncaring volunteer our time, effort, and money to support causes which help our fellow citizens through organizations that I am certain do a much better job than any federal program, dollar for dollar and otherwise.

As far as "right wingers patting each other on the back", I have noticed many more people on this forum of the conservative persuasion who sincerely try to make an effort to engage in conversation both ways, and provide thoughtful and thought provoking posts. On the other hand, I notice a majority of the liberal posts (but to be fair, not all) that only contribute in the way of one line slams and whining. This makes one wonder what the real problem might be in government if one was to look at this post as a reflection of liberals versus conservatives in congress.