2 ms·

Of course the system is not something that magically descended to the heavens, it is simply what people have agreed to go by. If it is unequal, it is so because

Of course the system is not something that magically descended to the heavens, it is simply what people have agreed to go by. If it is unequal, it is so because the people have decided that they want it to be unequal. No doubt because, as you point out, the typical person would rather spend their time making ends meet (i.e. pay for the luxuries of life) than the worry about making agreements with their neighbours day-in, day-out. You can technically survive on very little time commitment to "make ends meet". Just look at the homeless population. It is not a life you would want to live, but it could be done if you truly saw the need to assert your power. But, understandably, most people would rather focus on their personal goals and let the figurehead worry about the community problems. What's the alternative? It's just people at the end of the day. There is no magic. Those who do the work are going to do the work the best way they know how. Even if they value your input and want nothing more than to work with you so that you can show your better way, they are not going to scour the globe to find you. If you don't put the effort in to make yourself known on a regular basis you will be forgotten about.

postpawl 3y ago
Although people have a role in forming societal structures, it's not a simple matter of choice when entrenched interests shape the rules. The perception that individuals consent to inequality by focusing on their own lives misses the broader context of systemic barriers. Expecting people to prioritize civic action over making a decent living underestimates the challenges they face. The system needs to facilitate equal participation through reforms in political finance, such as addressing the implications of Citizens United, or revisiting institutional frameworks that may dilute the majority's voice (the Senate). It's about creating conditions where engagement is a realistic option for all, not just those who can afford the time and expense.
- soco 3y ago
  I think you folks actually agree here: you say "creating conditions" in a rather impersonal way (because who's gonna create them?) while they say that without implication, those conditions will never appear by themselves. And none of you said it would be easy.
- randomdata 3y ago
  > The system needs to... The system isn't handed down to us by a higher power. It's just people. It's shaped simply by what people decide to do. Want different? Then you must do different. There is no alternative. There is no magical genie that will grant you three wishes. If you don't do the work someone else will, and they will do it the way they want it done, same as you would.

postpawl 3y ago

Although people have a role in forming societal structures, it's not a simple matter of choice when entrenched interests shape the rules. The perception that individuals consent to inequality by focusing on their own lives misses the broader context of systemic barriers. Expecting people to prioritize civic action over making a decent living underestimates the challenges they face. The system needs to facilitate equal participation through reforms in political finance, such as addressing the implications of Citizens United, or revisiting institutional frameworks that may dilute the majority's voice (the Senate). It's about creating conditions where engagement is a realistic option for all, not just those who can afford the time and expense.

soco 3y ago
I think you folks actually agree here: you say "creating conditions" in a rather impersonal way (because who's gonna create them?) while they say that without implication, those conditions will never appear by themselves. And none of you said it would be easy.
randomdata 3y ago
> The system needs to... The system isn't handed down to us by a higher power. It's just people. It's shaped simply by what people decide to do. Want different? Then you must do different. There is no alternative. There is no magical genie that will grant you three wishes. If you don't do the work someone else will, and they will do it the way they want it done, same as you would.