The late Sen. Ted Kennedy hoped that health care would become a fundamental right for all Americans. Today, this hope is accompanied by an irrational fear and superstition of every action taken by the president. Examining our health care system through the prism of hope and fear might clarify why the credulous obstructionists are confused.

First, those with no insurance use the emergency room when illness strikes. They have no hope of health care insurance and fear they will be turned away. Second, those with health care insurance qualified for the coverage because they are healthy and have no previously existing medical conditions. These lucky Americans pay large premiums and deductibles of 20 percent on any medical bill. These Americans hope they never have to use this insurance coverage, but fear a catastrophic medical condition that will send them into bankruptcy.

Insurance companies hope their customers never get sick but fear they will have to pay 80 percent of the medical bill. The insured stand to lose their life and fortune while the insurance companies stand to lose their profit margin for the year (because next year those who filed claims will be dropped). Insurance companies can declare bankruptcy to avoid paying any medical bills, and then they can go around the corner to open another company under a different name.

The health care industry is a monopolistic market structure and needs to be regulated like all monopolies in our capitalistic economy. The public option will require higher taxes for all and will provide health care as a fundamental right for all Americans. There are no free lunches.

Some politicians desire to sacrifice health care reform on the cross of a political strategy demonizing our new, young president. To paraphrase Spinoza: When hope and fear struggle for mastery in the human mind, it is easily swayed by superstition. Hope continues.