& the GWB administration won’t seem so bad in a historical context. Whether you believe in the Iraq war and whether I do, is meaningless. If it works out pretty decently, he wins historically. If it fails…. not so much. (suspension of habeous courpus during the Civil war?)

Another thing I semi-disagree with is corporations controlling both parties. While their donations can help promote issues, candidates, etc – it’s still the voters who decide based on campaign commercials who ultimately bear that responsibility. & for those stupid enough to believe more regulations are the answer, more regulation only leads to more money in politics.

Contemplate – if I’m a politician but I have absolutely no control over your business in any way at all – why would you ever give me any money? So the mere fact stupid politicians believe they can come up with a one size fits all health care or welfare or whatever plan, leads directly to more money because those vested interests have a direct reason to protect those interests. (isn’t it odd the baby boomers – don’t trust anyone over 30 crowd is now leading the way to less and less freedom? worthless idiots who obviously only wanted power to implement their utopia – they never cared about true freedom).

Having said that – if I sold you a tonic that I told you cured everything for ever and you took it and got sick…. I’m not saying that me lying isn’t an issue as it is, but in our system – if politicians are corrupt and we refuse to do anything – then it’s on us.

So long as people are willing to have theoretically strong convictions, but refuse to be challenged or honestly think through issues – then they can remain blissfully ignorant and continue on their way.

Just know – the main reason why government sucks – is because 80% of voters will respond the same way if I were to bring up this administration during lunch – “I don’t want to talk about it” – & sometimes it’s not completely negative (post soon) , but most dismiss the conversation out of hand – “it’s not polite to talk politics” or “empty barrels make the most noise”…. but most don’t talk at all…. because I think they know their beliefs if challenged will fail (pacifism?)

For me – challenge me – every day all day. It either makes me stronger in my beliefs or helps correct a potential error. Either way – very well worth my time to indulge in any honest, real challenge posed. It’s not an easy way to live life, but much more fulfilling.

I forget the philosopher but I agree completely with this “An unexamined life is not worth living.”.. but we’re too sophisticated for old world knowledge