This election year, like any, has a large number of issues that politicians use to distinguish themselves from each other. Budget deficits, immigration, gay marriage, jobs, and corporate misdeeds are all big hits. But what is less obvious is that these issues that appear in the press in long scorecards and lists as if they are important are nothing more than pointless noise. A big bundle of issues, however eagerly they are debated, is no substitute for a genuine strategy – and the real leadership that shapes and executes that strategy. But this point is utterly lost in what pathetically passes for “debate” in our politics.
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Yearly Archives: 2010
Opt Out of da Noize
We’re in the middle of an election season in Minnesota and across the USofA. Everything is certain to become hotter, more partisan, and much louder. I think there’s only one course of action for people who care about our state, our nation, and our planet:
Opt out.
No, I’m not calling for people to boycott elections or debates or politics in general. I want to see something far more active bubbling under the noize. I’d like for everyone who reads Barataria to reach out and spend at least 30 minutes talking to someone they are sure they disagree with politically. Why? Because I’m guessing that you’ll find something you agree with if you let it roll.
Kelliher for Minnesota
August 10th is Primary Day in Minnesota. For those of you who live in other places, I have to apologize. We have work to do here at home, so I have to talk to the family for a bit.
For those of us who live in Minnesota, you are like family to me. I’m proud of this state and all that it has accomplished towards building a decent life for everyone. That’s why I’m proud to support Margaret Anderson Kelliher in our primary and I hope that you do, too.
Does it Sell?
Advertising is everywhere, and it keeps our media afloat. Without ads there would be no money to support cultural centers like news organizations and sports teams as we’ve come to know them. But are the ads that fill our lives effective at selling the products – or, indeed, worth anywhere near the money spent on them?
Sinking In?
Is the Depression becoming internalized? It may just be a feeling or it may be the people I know, but I’ve been seeing a lot more symptoms of depression in the world around me. Friends and acquaintances have detached themselves gradually from the hyper-connected world and pushed back on anything not right in front of them. Some are clearly having trouble coping with even simple things that they used to enjoy. Calls and e-mails are rarely answered with any kind of consistency or speed.
I wanted to discuss this because if this is true the only way out is old fashioned talking about it. If it’s not true, I may need a new circle of friends.
Barataria - The work of Erik Hare 