“Socialism, like the ancient ideas from which it springs, confuses the distinction between government and society. As a result of this, every time we object to a thing being done by government, the socialists conclude that we object to its being done at all.”

ABSOLUTELY ! ! ! Great, fantastic, and accurate observance ! for example; individuals (personally and in concert with community - local to national) with out a standing army (police to . . .), can maintain order and security and execute justice. / Charity can be given with love (not forcefully stolen) for the support of the poor; and charity can be received with gratitude (not claiming right to be taken care of or demand for and on another's being, actions and property). / Social structure can be maintained and enhanced without threatening property (property tax for example); etc., etc., etc.

And , of course, when the socialsts do something, it's always for "the greater good" or some such nonsense.

Very well put!

This is SO true. Just talk to any 'progressive' and you will see that this is absolutely their mindset from the get go.

Socialism confuses issues of sound economics with pie in the sky utopianism. Socialism confuses self reliance and responsibilty for one's own welfare with an an "I'm entitled to welfare" mentality. In short the introduction of Socialism and Corporate Cronyism have undermined what was once the greatest nation in history. We'll soon see if this spiral is to continue or if the brakes are put on this slide into the abyss.

"Socialism, like the ancient ideas from which it springs." 
Many might ask, What are its origins ? Why or How is it so entrenched throughout the old world as also becoming in the new world ? One could say, "socialism, like the ancient doctrines from which it springs". Precedent at law, one finds the ancient doctrines of "welfare", Yshuwah ( welfare ) literal, something saved, deliverance, aid, health. "Deliverance" is generally used as God as the subject.
" But Jeshurun waxed fat, thou art grown thick, thou art covered with fatness, then he forsook God which made him, and lightly esteemed the Rock of his salvation." That sounds very much like politicians and clergy of today. 
Towb, "good" ( welfare ) good man or woman, friendly or useful, often the word bears an even stronger emphasis, Where the " good word" is not only friendly but eases the life of ones servants. God's "good word" promises life in the face of oppression and uncertainty. Now, it is not hard to see Why our founding fathers held in great disdain that religious sect which behaves in such contempt of commonsense concerning liberty and freedom of the individual over state.
As for corrupted socialist, " Therefore pride compasseth them about as a chain; violence covereth them as a garment. Their eyes stand out with fatness: they have more than heart could wish. They are corrupt, and speak wickedly concerning oppression: they speak loftily." Psalm 73:6,7,8.KJB. Date 7-3-18 Very applicable also is Amos ch 5, concerning current time and issues. " These are the Days " 

I genuinely appreciate the writing of Bastiat. He is a model of French Rationalism, with all its seriousness, pomp and folly. His jumps in logic are no worse than any other of his ilk; but better in that I must believe there is a true sense of humor behind them. Either that, or he is a delusory idiot! Let us trace the beginnings of Socialism back to Plato. Not really; because we know he was an aristocrat and very much believed in the concept of genetics when it came to social leadership, leaving some considerable room for an exception to the rule. (Republic and Laws) Bastiat is correct that most do confuse Socialism with government; but it is not as big a misconception as that of attributing to Capitalism aspects of Principle. Or, worse, coterminous with the government of a republic.

Frederic Bastiat, always stated astute and very wise thoughtful heartfelt wisdom.  Something that is far to extremely lacking in far too many who Serve Us Up in D.C., and in many of the various State legislators.

Nothing is to get done unless the people change. Are we not a government of the people?  Aren't people the society?

The idea is the fuse the conceptualizations of society and government so the individual will associate the responsible importance of being apart of a social arrangement to contributing positively to its governing process and procedures, and not neglecting their obligations thinking its some other's responsibility. Socialism is the challenge of social abilities to create a sense of responsibility.

Sillik, I do NOT believe your fantasies, propaganda or lies. For myself, I choose individual sovereignty, inalienable rights and liberty at nature's law ! ! !  —  NOT, the slavery infusing of socialism's many destructive tenets.