Houston Democrats

Marguerite, I believe that the Woodwards and the Bernsteins are still out there. What's missing are the independent editors and independent media companies with the courage and drive to spread the word.

Mike, you are correct, at least I hope so. There seems to be some evidence that the Newsweek crew is gathering courage to take a little revenge for the way they were tarred and feathered on the Qu'ran in the toilet fiasco. Let's hope that translates into some real invesitigative reporting on the DSM, etc.

I'm not so sure that it's normal people who don't care about the Downing Street Memo, but more a case of ignorant people not knowing that they should care about it. People seem to focus more on the next American Idol, the next reality series like I Want to be a Hilton (can't imagine why), or the next fad such as iPods, much more than issues that affect their lives in very profound ways. Our society is largely ignorant of what our government is doing and particularly our place in the world. We seem to think that we can never fall, that our success will go on forever, after all we are the sole superpower. However, we seem to forget the long succession of superpowers that came before us. Looking at American society today as a whole, it seems very much self-centered, self-absorbed -- who cares what others think, we're the best, and that's the way it's going to be. Yet, we're essentially driving ourselves off a cliff if we don't turn things around. China, India, and other developing nations are rapidly gaining ground, while we create larger and larger trade deficits, and higher and higher national debts. The administration repeatedly thwarts or disembowles environmental initiatives, when in fact increasing efficiency and a better standard of living would be the outcome of such agreements in the longer term. Social Security, health care, education, and others are in trouble. Yet, despite all these dire situations, most of America is sitting oblivious in front of the TV watching (un)reality shows and munching the latest McSomething with four meat patties and cheese. Our job is to get across to these people why they should care. For example, the connection between high gas prices, demand, gas guzzling vehicles, and the benefits of higher environmental standards. I know everyone who reads this blog does not fall in this category, but we must appeal to the ignorant citizens of our society and make them care. It is the only way a truly democratic society can function. People are the foundation of democracy. Right now, our government is dangerously out of touch with the people, and focusing on the needs of those with the most money. This is not a time to sit back and watch the show.

Thanks Marguerite for posting the links to those sites on the DSM. There's something that America should really care about.

Marguerite, maybe "normal" people don't care about DSM, but I sure do! I have been writing letters to every media outlet, newspaper, congressman -- whoever I can get an address for -- for weeks.

You see, I am a Gold Star Mom and a member of Gold Star Families for Peace living in Houston. Imagine that, here in the heart of Bush country!

Thanks for your work to keep this topic of discussion going. I can't stand what Bush et al has done to this country and will fight to my last breath to help turn it around. I can do no less.

Peace,
Amy

Marc, I'd just want to point out that I think it's entirely possible to care deeply about economic and social justice, the environment, free speech, and the evils of globalization, and still be a totally self-absorbed narcissist. I'm living proof! :-)

Glad to hear it! It's the knowledge, caring, and involvement that matter. The other stuff is personal and is up to you, unlike the legislature that likes to think it knows everything.