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Most people in true totalitarian states manage to normalize the situation and go about their lives. They just accept that you vote for Saddam Hussein, present y
by ctdonath 13y ago
Most people in true totalitarian states manage to normalize the situation and go about their lives. They just accept that you vote for Saddam Hussein, present your documents upon "papierein, bitte", report your neighbors to the KGB, and hand over half your income to the IRS. Those who don't tend to just disappear - quietly, with politically correct mumbling about "good riddance".
Few are willing to fight for their right to live at risk. Their neighbors see to it (if indirectly) the consequences are swift and severe, quiet and veiled.
- mikeash 13y agoVote for Obama or Romney? Both indistinguishable when it comes to the question of surveillance and basic constitutional freedoms. We routinely hand over our "papers" when traveling, or even when just buying beer. "If you see something, say something" hardly needs additional comment. They're not nearly as extreme as they are or have been in some places, but the US certainly seems to qualify for all the basics you outlined. And we have indeed normalized the situation to go about our lives.