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The only way out I can see is to make government small enough (or homogeneous enough) that one's opinion doesn't matter much. That's the way it was in America
by hnal943 11y ago
The only way out I can see is to make government small enough (or homogeneous enough) that one's opinion doesn't matter much. That's the way it was in America for much of the 20th century - there wasn't much difference between the major political parties. When people are trying to remake society through the political process, is it any wonder that is polarizing?
- randcraw 11y agoSo how should people remake their country if not through the political process? Through armed rebellion? I'd say that's rather polarizing too. I think the solution goes back to an old civic ideal that's central to a successful democracy. Duty. If Americans dutifully studied the issues, civilly discussed the alternative policies (knowing there must be tradeoffs and delays as different solutions are tested and refined), and participated constructively in the process as if their children's future depended on it, we wouldn't have time to bitch and moan. And we'd rightly shame those who do for being childish and useless.
- humanrebar 11y ago> there wasn't much difference between the major political parties That's not my understanding of 20th century politics at all. You'll need to elaborate on what qualifies as "much difference". Roe V. Wade, for example, happened right in the middle of the 20th century.
- Trill-I-Am 11y agoHe means from the New Deal to the nomination of Goldwater when Democrats controlled Congress and Republicans weren't as polarized or conservative
- redblacktree 11y agoI don't know which period the parent may be referring to, but if you believe in Mr. Monroe's methodology[0], you can definitely see the reduction in moderates on both sides starting at a peak around 1930. [0]: https://xkcd.com/1127/large/ https://xkcd.com/1127/large/