On Apr 19, 2008, at 15:44 , Fred Gohlke wrote:
re: "... it might be good to find some ways to reduce the spending
a bit
(=> better chances to all candidates, less dependences in the
direction
of the donators)."
The spending is welcomed by politicians and those who support them for
the precise reason that it eliminates challengers.
I guess US is still a democracy in the sense that people can decide
otherwise if they so wish. Probably also the media loves the massive
and long campaigns and the numerous intermediate steps (primaries,
elections per state) on the way, and many citizens probably enjoy
them too. It is a pity that the needs of show business may sometimes
conflict with the needs of a simpler and more practical (and maybe
also better working) political process.
re: "One could also try to arrange some more serious discussions about
the policies (maybe more frequent, with less preparation) rather than
leaving it to a free style marketing campaign."
Yes, but how? I've suggested one method and I'm sure there are
others.
We need to hear them and examine them.
It is probable that the changes will take time and they may happen as
many small steps. Also bigger changes are possible but I don't see
any such movements in US at the moment. As already said, if people
want some changes, in a democracy they can get it. There will be
counter forces as well. Much depends on how well the change promoters
(as well as the opponents) can formulate and justify their proposals.
(I also note again that people will roughly get the kind of system
that they deserve. Maybe one could consider better education etc. to
achieve better results.)
Juho
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