"A majority of Americans (56%) believe that government is trying to do too many things that should be left to individuals and businesses, while 39% hold the view that government should do more to solve the nation's problems. Responses to this question have been quite fluid over the two decades in which Gallup has asked the question. In October 2001, in the aftermath of 9/11, 50% said government should do more to solve the country's problems -- the highest in Gallup's history of asking the question. Sentiment that government should do more was lowest in the 1995-1998 time frame, when only about a third held this view and about 6 in 10 said government was doing too much."

       The meaning I received from this passage is that Americans will complain and talk about all the negative impacts the government has on society, but in times of trouble or need, society will look to that same government for help. This is reflected in the survey which shows that when asked if the government is doing too much,  more that 50% of Americans would agree. However, since 9/11 Americans views have changed and they are looking for the government, they had no confidence in, to do more. 

       I chose this passage because the people in society should not be so negative towards the government because they have the power that governs our everyday living. Although it is hard for Americans to believe that the government is always looking out for the society's best interest, we need to support our government and not only look to them for help, only when the country is in trouble to solve the problem. It is important for society to support our government (although Americans might not agree on everything they do) because if we don't support them, who else will?