Since the 1980s, different approaches to types of pain have been taken by the political right and left. While political liberals have tried to develop an image of compassion towards the pain of others, leading to expansive government relief programs, political conservatives have instead cultivated a sense of caution and distrust around those claiming to be in pain, seeing public relief programs as handouts and evidence of a "weak, coddled, dependent society." These ideologies are still clear today as members of the U.S. Congress continue to clash over issues of healthcare coverage, medical marijuana, pain management methods, abortion and "fetal pain," and the reach of the federal government. The division further impairs the development of trust between healthcare providers, the government, and citizens, as many in pain still do not feel heard or have access to adequate care.

Wailoo, K. (2014). Pain: A Political History. JHU Press. - Conclusion