While I can partially understand the thought, I think to say we are stepping into an age of socialism is not anywhere close to the truth. For socialism to actually be socialism, the government must take over the company and make all financial decisions for the company. This has and is not happening. If the government didn't step in, the effects on all of our lives would be much greater than they are now. If as some say the dollar isn't worth the paper it is written on, then why is our dollar still worth close to what it was prior to the "bail out"? Seems to me this was a reasonable response, however, those who have recieved tarp money must be held accountable just as the auto companies are being held accountable. For this to work the banks must start to lend money, so far they really aren't, they are just hording their money.