Ex 9-4: A Pox on Both of Your Houses

Discussion: Are both political parties equally unresponsive to the will of the country?

Political polarization has undermined the responsiveness of both parties to most Americans, greatly overemphasizing the views of the most extreme individuals.

Increased insecurity is a real situation.  Populist right-wing politicians have strongly leveraged this concern.

What’s the Root Cause of Our Problems?: Insecurity

Immigration has been used to fan the fires for the last decade just as communism, terrorism, race and crime were used before.  ☹

Addressing the “Threat” of Immigration

Many national Republican politicians today reject the value of truth, objectivity and facts.  Civility is rejected as a left-wing trick or hoax.

Opposition to Civility is Unconvincing (2)

These politicians embrace the lowest angels of our nature.  Victimhood is emphasized.

Don’t Be a Political Victim (Right)

Extremism grows.

It Gets Even Worse

Extreme populism and the threat of dictatorship grow.

Who Will Defend Democracy?

Unfortunately, the supposedly idealistic Democratic party has also been less than ideal.

It too encourages victimhood.

Don’t Be a Political Victim (Left)

It tolerates extreme postmodernist rhetoric.

Opposition to Civility is Unconvincing

It indulges in righteousness.

How Liberal Values Drive Conservative Populism

It struggles to embrace non-governmental solutions to social problems.

Embracing Community: Overcoming Roadblocks on the Left

Liberal Concerns; Community Solutions

It remains stuck as the polarized opposition.

Politics Ain’t Beanbag: Diagnosing the 2024 Presidential Election

It seems unable to proactively compromise or propose innovative solutions.

Serve the American People

R-E-S-P-E-C-T

R-E-S-P-E-C-T-2

The Janesville Plan: Economic Opportunity for All

The Paradox of Great Wealth in a Democracy