Although time will need to pass before any real objectivity can be applied to an assessment of the 2008 election campaigns, it is already clear that style once again dominated substance. Perhaps more so than ever before.
Two years of intensive addressing the American electorate by candidates on issues has done little to advance knowledge and understanding.
Taxation, even carefully and sensibly implemented taxation, is still perceived as a basically socialist concept and not as a real means to promote the growth and well-being of a society. Being Muslim is still regarded as allied to the relatively small number of militant extremists. Carbon emission has been discussed only in terms of the need for a reduction in oil dependence rather than a lowering of energy demand. International relationships are still viewed solely from the perspective of American protectionism rather than the potential benefits of a commonwealth of nations. The list is endless.
Although seeking to differentiate themselves from each other, each candidate has been careful to ensure that their presentation of their positions has remained “moderate”. As a result, no real debate has occurred, the challenges facing the American people and the world have hardly been engaged in any meaningful way.
Millions of dollars spent on talking to the people of a nation for an extraordinary length of time. What a waste of opportunity.
The main culprits are ourselves and our own desire that our candidates win a partisan battle without taking risks. The blame cannot be shifted solely onto the politicians or the system or any
inherent inability to comprehend the issues.
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