[drauz]

Noonan combines naivete & great wordsmithing. She has yet to accept the meaning of the unholy alliance among political hacks, Bushists, necocons, and fundamentalists upon the GOP.

Anyway, while I agree that we get the gov we deserve, allow me to defend the Average Amercian of today a bit...

First, quality public education (and educators) on citizenship and American history is practially non-existant, has been for decades. Without shared memory, and promulgation of a central theme, the social contract disolves. The Founding Fathers provided us a great start, but we're blowing it after 220 yrs - a great run while it lasted. So, ignorance has been self-imposed from the top down (thanks AEA, HEW & LCD philosophy).

Secondly, we have lost our shared cultural experience (unless you count watching reality TV). The draft was the last institution that demanded that we are bound together as active citizens, regardless of background. This has enabled the Exec Branch to use the military on a nearly personal and ad hoc basis (lack of checks and balances helps). Collectively and individually we yearn to particpate in national responsibilities. But no leader will call for required national duty (not limited to military) in the course of one's career - they ignore a compelling need and desire.

Third, the People are busy... very busy. Modern life is complex and challenging. Taking care of a family's material, physical & spiritual needs is demanding. Delivering kids safely and prepared for independent life is nerve-wracking and expensive. Yes, personal selfishness and materialism plays a role (as has capitalism and mass marketing techniques, but hey, nothing is perfect). The overall effect has made it less likely for the citizenry to participate in civil culture (note the decrease in eligible voters voting). Not to mention, this trend is welcomed by those who find it easier to manipulate gov processes when the citizenry is otherwise occupied.

Absent a recasting of our major Parties (which is a very long shot), I have hoped for one or both to implode in order to rid ourselves of the unelected hacks who control them - at least for awhile. Yes, it would be nice to have quality leadership of a centrist political movement in America - one that would engage citizens in an optimistic yet pragmatic way. Faint hope.