Yes, indeedy, boys n girls. The nanny state has been around for awhile because you're simply too stupid to take responsibility for your own actions.
This Mechanix Illustrated article is from Jan., 1959 and authored by one Senator Richard L. Neuberger.
A democrat, natch. From Oregon.
It seems the good senator was unsuccessful in his nanny state efforts because now we have NASCAR; a multi-billion dollar a year industry employing thousands, advancing auto safety, and providing colorful tee shirts to millions all across this great land.
See what great things can occur when gub'mint leaves us alone?
Fairy tales do not tell children the dragons exist. Children already know that dragons exist.
Fairy tales tell children the dragons can be killed. - G.K. Chesterton