When I began this blog in 2001, I was appalled by President Bush's headlong rush to an illegal war (we were not in fact under attack). As time wore on and Bush began his assault on the Constitution and any people bold enough to criticize, I believed that "the republic is endangered more by actions of our own government than by those of any terrorist." With the election of a high-minded, compassionate, intelligent man like Barack Obama, my fears have ceased.
"Honor them with peace, not war"
United for Peace
Friday, May 28, 2004
Most people are interested in politics only to the extent it affects them economically. A significant minority are also interested in politics as a means to gain or protect legal rights.
So what accounts for the sneer inherent in this joke that has been bouncing around the internet, given that most of us find issues relating to our pocketbooks more compelling than theoretical ones (such as other people's rights)?
A big part of political power seems to be power not merely to control one's own life, but to control others. And one mechanism for controlling is derogatory humor.
Copyright © 2001-03 Pam Shorey
(except the specific sources credited in quotes)
Most people are interested in politics only to the extent it affects them economically. A significant minority are also interested in politics as a means to gain or protect legal rights.
So what accounts for the sneer inherent in this joke that has been bouncing around the internet, given that most of us find issues relating to our pocketbooks more compelling than theoretical ones (such as other people's rights)?
My friend Cindy was walking up Third Avenue in Manhattan thinking about her
impending wedding. Strung across the street in midtown was a large protest
banner. When she arrived home, she said to her fiancé, "There is a giant
sign across Third Avenue that says, 'Free China,' but they don't tell you
where to get it.
A big part of political power seems to be power not merely to control one's own life, but to control others. And one mechanism for controlling is derogatory humor.
Palema
1:40 PM
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Copyright © 2001-03 Pam Shorey
(except the specific sources credited in quotes)
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