terrshee's Diaryland Diary

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The Meritocracy of Mediocrity

Bombarded as I am with news about the U.S. government (I do work in a news room), at odd moments I find myself mulling over the state of the nation, especially since the deeply distrubing re-election of Dubya.

This morning I got to thinking about how we are living in a meritocracy of mediocrity. Our leaders and their so-called bold visions seem to be based on the most simplistic and greatest common denominator. The things that they praise the most and identify with most intensely are those that challenge the least. It takes no great courage to wrap yourself in the flag and spout off platitudes, and it certainly won't get you pilloried. They've carefully aligned themselves with Mom, Apple Pie, Guns for Peace, and Christ as the Answer. They've co-opted the symbols that transcend reality, and used them to firmly embed themselves in the seat of power. Anything that defies their definition of tradition is a danger; that includes anything that excels the ordinary or tries to stand apart.

I'm very, very frightened for my country right now. When people rely on what they are told and refuse to think or challenge anything, then fear rules and liberty hides. What place is there in this world for dissent, which is at the heart of democracy?

11:13 a.m. - 2004-11-24
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