The US in decline. Certainly in terms of decency and democracy. My impression is a growing corruption of once noble ideas and goals. This rot starts with the government, and extends through corporations right down to the individual. Honesty takes a back seat to the "spin". Democracy is compromised by special interest groups and a compliant uncritical media. Democracy is good, unless of course the electorate itself is on the other side of the issue. Then democracy must be set aside, or the issue spun in such a manner as to gain acceptance. Take for example the hatred towards French President Chirac. Never mind that the vast majority of Frenchmen supported his position. The US would have much favoured a dictator, as long as he supported the US. Democracy, freedom of expression, is fine as long as the dumb electorate makes the right choice!
The UN and its various commissions etc. are all good, provided they don't clash with the US vital interest. Here again, for example, the commission set up to prosecute war criminals in the Hague are doing a great job, prosecuting the likes of Milosevic. However, their authority ends when it comes to the United States, who have exempted themselves and their soldiers from ever having to appear before this body. Hypocrisy all around. Business is not much better with the CEOs demanding sacrifice from their employees while fleecing their company. Everything has a spin, and more and more I get the impression that I am being conned or controlled.
I hope I don't sound paranoid, actually I am a bit saddened by how democratic institutions can be bent and used against the people. The power groups are in control....the lawyers, bankers and media. Moral standards have been legislated out of existence, slowly over time. Complaining is useless, besides, these things take second place to the standard of living, the almighty buck.
A perfect system can be corrupted over time, and democracy has certainly evolved. Makes me wonder where it will all end.
Phil |
