Of a government’s many duties, the primary one is ensuring the well-being of its citizens. While some say this ought to give the authorities decision-making powers over others, I disagree and argue that a government’s authority should be limited to national concerns, not individuals. Otherwise, we risk not only personal freedoms, but also personal responsibilities. By permitting others to decide for us, we forfeit our individuality. History has shown that governments granted excessive authority tend to exercise it in all areas of life. George Orwell’s 1984 demonstrated clearly how the leadership with unchecked influence will eventually dictate even how one should think. Thus, telling a person he cannot smoke, while well-intentioned, is nevertheless an attack on personal choice. Moreover, as most people understand what is good or bad for themselves, giving others the power to decide this may devolve into their Furthermore, eliminating one’s freedom to choose will negate the...