Considerations

This election year is unique in a number of ways. After two previous Presidential contests that have betrayed just how divided a nation we are, the trend continues to a third. We are being manipulated by the mainstream media, which determines in no uncertain terms which candidates get more exposure than others. Those who claim to report the news often break into what amounts to personal endorsements of a particular candidate, which would have been considered thoroughly unprofessional just a few years ago.

What is more astounding, is the extent to which the general public does not appear to mind being duped so easily.

People believe what they want to believe. Those who have concerns (evidence to the contrary notwithstanding) about the inexperience of a Republican vice-presidential candidate, have no qualms whatsoever about the same deficit in a Democratic candidate. The same people who hold grave concerns about the temperament of the Republican presidential candidate, have no such concerns about the same lack of temperament in the Democratic vice-presidential candidate. Oh no, we have other considerations. What is he promising to do to rescue me from my bad decisions? How do I react when I am in a crowded room with him? What's that feeling going up my leg???

Syndicated columnist Ann Coulter has remarked that no one goes out of their way to appear "cool" by openly supporting a Republican. Dear reader, whatever we may decide in this contest, this is not an election for the homecoming queen. Yet is this how our judgement is to be, when electing our Nation's leaders? A fashion statement? A popularity contest?

There has admittedly been more political commentary here as of late. For the next two weeks, there will continue to be such commentary. Yours truly will take this opportunity to go behind the buzz, behind the soundbites, to look at matters of substance. People look to whomever makes the biggest promises, in matters over which they subsequently have very little control. For example, a president is elected in the midst of a bad economy. Upon taking office, the economy improves. Everyone assumes the President is responsible without closer examination. "Post hoc, ergo propter hoc." It is a common fallacy: "After this, therefore because of this." Such people refuse to look at the general character and philosophy of the candidate themselves; the forces, both internal and external, that brought them to where they are today.

Actions speak louder than words, we might respond. Very well, there is enough of that to prove our point. We will review a number of such examples in the days to come.
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