I’m working on the democracy and political polarization chapter of the new The Great Good Place, and found myself thinking of a video my daughter showed me a couple days ago when I was batting at flies. Here’s the clip, from the musical 1776 in which John Adams is arguing that the colonists should declare independence. Then take a look at what happens today in the US Senate chamber: the senators make speeches to empty rooms. I chose two good guys—Chris Murphy and Bernie Sanders—because I’m not criticizing them personally. It’s the thought that democracy is dying a digital death that concerns me.
The other delegates don’t agree with John Adams, but he keeps arguing! And so should we.
A young Chris Murphy here:
And a recent one of Bernie Sanders:
In the UK, every Wednesday you can watch or listen to Prime Minister’s Question Time. And this isn’t just a few people arguing for the cameras. The gang’s all there.
Yes, I know there is polarization in the UK, too, but there’s also a chance for face-to-face debate, with all the risks that entails. Is the lack of face-to-face debate the result of political polarization, or is polarization the result of our separation from one another? Or is it all because of technology?
At the moment, here in the US, the Republicans are having a tough time during the August break, advised by their leaders to avoid the people they represent. I guess they’re getting their pizza delivered and ordering groceries online, and working out in the basement. But are they eager to head back to Washington?
Beto O’Rourke, former congressman and now political organizer, is miles ahead when it comes to meeting people where they live. Read about him in the post linked below.
Politicking in third places
FYI: This is another story tied to the US elections in November, but my focus here is third places in civic life anywhere. I’m delighted to have found an example to share with you. the audio version …
Who is Karen Christensen? Find out here. What is The Way We Live Now trying to accomplish? Read about it here.