Week beginning November 2: readers question common sense and private health cover
Propaganda and public debate
One reader says an essay on propaganda as hybrid warfare was sobering, describing its account of democracy’s erosion as virtual communities replace shared public spaces. The reader questions the essay’s call for common sense and plain speaking, arguing that both ideas can be manipulated. They say “common sense” has been used to disguise beliefs without evidence, citing flat Earth claims and bigotry, and argue it cannot protect democracy.
Questions about private cover
A second reader responds to an article about whether pensioners should be exempt from private health rebates. They suggest first investigating who has private insurance, saying many people on low incomes may not be able to afford it.
The writer, a 74-year-old pensioner, has extras cover but questions whether its benefits justify the premiums. They say that while working, they could not determine whether they qualified for the rebate or how to claim it.
Private insurance and Medicare
The pensioner acknowledges that private cover may provide faster access to specialists and surgery. They ask why private insurance is needed when Medicare is available.
Key points
- A reader argues that appeals to common sense can be manipulated and may undermine democratic debate.
- A 74-year-old pensioner questions whether extras cover is worth its premiums.
- The pensioner says they struggled to establish eligibility for the private health rebate.
- A reader asks why private insurance is needed alongside Medicare.