There's something I've never really understood about the political process. Or maybe it's more accurate to say there's something I've never really understood about human nature. Actually I could say that about a million things but I'll return to the original point I was attempting to make.
I don't understand how anyone can feel so strongly about a political candidate that they are brought to displays of emotion about it. I watch the tube and see people screaming, seemingly in joy, at McCain's or Obama's rallies and I just don't get it. What's so exciting about either one of those guys or their ideas or philosophies?
And to that same end I don't understand why anyone of average means would ever make a political contribution. I can think of about ten million other ways I want to spend my money. And if I make any contributions it's going to be to my church or a worthy charity. Give my money to a political candidate? It's just not going to happen.
I'm not apolitical. I care about this country and the direction it's going. But I just can't get excited over any one particular person running for office. And it's not because of who's running this year. It's for two reasons. First of all they make promises they can't keep. We all know that. It's just what politicians do. So why would I believe anything they say. Secondly I don't think they can make that much of a difference in the way the country is heading. Sure, we luck out and get a Franklin Roosevelt or John Kennedy or a Ronald Reagan every forty or fifty years but let's face it. Most of the candidates we get this day and age are media darlings. Or if they're not that they're the best of their political party at being media savvy. There are rarely any substance to these types. They're programmed by handlers to deliver a message that gets them elected.
Now I know what you're thinking. I'm just being cynical. Well, hell yeah I am. But I think it's justified. I think my cynicism started with Bush senior. He promised no new taxes and proceeded to do just that. Then Slick Willy came along with some strange uses for cigars in the Oval Office. It's been all downhill after that. Now I have more interest in tea leaf reading that listening to any candidate for office. Political campaigns are just white noise to me these days.
August 4, 2008 in
Politics |
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Obama, a MEDIA DARLING?!?!
Say it ain't so!
Posted by: Pete (Alois) at Aug 4, 2008 7:47:35 PM
Brother,
If I may . . .
What you are witnessing is a religious phenomenon where people direct all their hopes toward a symbol that seems to hold them. That's what the whole thing is about. We're not voting for a president; we're voting for a messiah. Of course our hopes are always dashed because the messiah never comes, but that's not the point. The symbol gives us an opportunity for hope. It isn't logical, I know, but it is mythological.
Posted by: Aristaeus at Aug 5, 2008 12:51:34 AM
Brother, I obviously hadn't thought of it that way. But it makes sense. Perfect sense. And for me, the hard core realist, it's surprising that it all connects back to mythology. You learn something every day.
Posted by: Lewis at Aug 5, 2008 10:06:02 AM
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