Anti This and That

Professor J,

You (sort of) answered my question about whether you thought (while channeling Toynbee) that these issues pertained to Western civilization or to the U.S. mainly. I've noticed that how to define "civilization" is a frequent discussion where Toynbee's ideas are concerned. If we don't change our ways I'm imaging the U.S. as the Titanic taking a lot of other countries with it (to varying degrees) in a failing downward suction. It isn't a pretty picture, is it?


"This country once prided itself on experimentation and flexibility. It has become rigid" (p.150) Wolin is speaking about the rise of conservatism and I see his point. His greatest fear seems to be the Christian Right and he makes reference to them when speculating where a demagogue may come from. Of course he doesn't have much faith in what he sees as a frail and toothless liberals either: "The American left has crumbled and sold out to a bankrupt Democratic Party."

"Wolin warns that ‘apolitcalness, even anti-politicalness, will be very powerful elements in taking us towards a radically dictatorial direction." This attitude is spawned by the nonsense spewed on the 24 hour news channels, cable "talk" shows (where no one talks, but there is lots of yelling) and talk radio, much of which is unlistenable for someone looking for an exchange of ideas and solutions. Compromise is a dirty word. Seeing the other point of view means that your mind has been poisoned. Respectful, reasoned debate is considered a bore. Everyone spends vast amounts of time skewering the opposition and ranting about what they are against. Few offer up reasonable solutions, fresh ideas, and a vision for the future beyond the mayhem that will ensue if the other "side" wins.


 Given that, what would you say to a young person of voting age who doesn't see the point of casting a ballot? Young, thoughtful, centrist seem increasingly turned off by the lack of REAL discussion about ideas. They are drowning in a sea of information, most of it useless and having little to do with vital issues that need to be addressed. They fail to understand why, when we have such massive problems in need of urgent solutions, we are wasting time listening to the nonsense that is wheeled out night after night as "news." More about that to come...

"The economic difficulties are more profound  than we had guessed and because of globalization more difficult to deal with. I wish the political establishment, the parties, and leadership , would become more aware of the depths of the problem..." (150)

Oh, Mr. Hedges...we all do.