Why do we have such a divergent discourse in America? This question often keeps me awake at night and causes me great concern. I ponder this question in the early morning hours to no avail. I am totally bemused by it. Moreover, I am not sure it can be resolved or explained to my satisfaction, especially given our increasing reliance on social media and the Internet, the ever-present 24/7 news cycle, and the dramatic loss of community across America.
During my formative years in Philadelphia, from 1943 to 1966, I recall that most Americans had similar beliefs. Of course, there were always many individual opinions on most matters of substance, but in the end and in general, most of my neighbors and acquaintances (and most Americans, I suppose) were of like mind regarding the values, principles, traditions, and ideals of importance in America. That has changed since the end of the 1950s and early 1960s.
A National Divergence Of Values And Viewpoints
From my limited vantage point, I perceive, on the one hand, a great number of American citizens across the country who lead ordinary lives. In general, they really want only to be left alone, act and make decisions in their own best interests, work hard, raise their families, go to church on Sunday, and do so many other things that constitute ordinary life in America. They do not seek perfection, but only a better life for themselves and their families.
On the other hand, we have a significant minority of people (I cannot estimate the number) who do not wish to leave well enough alone. Somehow, they have given life and voice to many emotionalized memes that resonate with them but that have no interest or relevance to the silent majority I mentioned previously. These memes arise, as I have written in other posts, without any basis in fact. Emotions and beliefs give them impetus. In my opinion, these memes have become a destructive force in American society. The constant repetition of these memes will continue to rend the fabric of America.
This minority occupies positions of power in academia, the mainstream media, and the Washington political establishment. I have come to realize that this minority does not mirror America in any substantive way. Nor do they represent the thinking of We the People, and their motives and actions are suspect at best.
There was a time in America when our public servants were men and women of reasonable intelligence and integrity. That is no longer the case, with only a few exceptions. One has only to observe their actions and to listen to their inane and infantile speeches. America does deserve better. Perhaps someday, we will return to a higher standard of public servants. At present, I am not willing to bet the ranch on that outcome.
Where Will This Extreme Divergence Lead?
I am not sure, and no one else can be sure either, where this divergence will lead. However, I can predict one thing, though. If we continue on this arc or line of march, it will not end well for America. Guaranteed!
A Request From The Author
If you have enjoyed reading this short post and it resonates with you, please share it with friends, colleagues, and family. I want to expand my readership.
Links
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