Title: Distractions and Democracy - the time factor
I've been following the discussion about Distractions and Democracy with interest. One point that has been repeated is that we lack the time to get involved. Someone has offered the solution that we should reduce the "average" work week. Why? Look at your week. You have seven days of 24 hours each for a total of 168 hours. Of that, the "average" work week is 40 hours or only 23.8% of your total week. Assuming you sleep 8 hours per day, that's another 56 hours. If you total the two that's 96 hours out of your 168 for the week leaving you with 72 hours (3 full days) to participate in other activities such as family, government, community groups, recreation, etc. The problem is not the work week, the problem is what we all seem to use to fill up our so-called leisure time. It all boils down to priorities. If you think it's a priority to get involved in a group or an issue, you will do so.
Perhaps if your "average" work week is too long, you need to examine where your priorities lie. Are you placing more importance on your career and your job than on the other issues in your life? I've been there. I've allowed myself to get so wrapped up in work and other activities that I didn't have time for the important things in life - like family and friends. It's not a good place to be. And it is hard to break that cycle, but it can be done.
That's my two-cents worth on the issue.
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Janet DeClute
[EMAIL PROTECTED]
