General Discussion
In reply to the discussion: A thank you to Democratic Underground, and a plea. [View all]Mass
(27,315 posts)the same thing. The result is the noise we hear.
Some people are more interested in economic justice (I am one of those) and are less passionate about what is seen as "civil liberties". Others are just the opposite. And of course, some people are in arms as soon as a criticism of president Obama is levelled (something I understand given the circumstances). The problem is that some too strong defenses or attacks prevent debate as everybody is on the defensive.
Result, the people in the middle leave because the atmosphere is irrespirable. This days, as it is impossible to talk about anything else than the NSA story (and largely in terms concerning people's opinions on Snowden), people who care about economic justice leave or the threads they post sink. And we are left with two camps going after each other (and both wanting to be the good one and insulting the other camp).
The sad part here is that as progressives, we should want the government involved. This is the only way to avoid economic unfairness and alleviate poverty. However, the latest story concerning the NSA goes exactly in the opposite direction, making all of us afraid of government.
I grew up in Europe and the lack of confidence in the institution of government is shocking for me. After all, laissez-faire is the right. So, I do not really like the idea government is spying on us but I would hate to throw the baby with the bath water. We need a government and we will be better with a Democratic one, as imperfect as it is.