At a time of national division, we can look back at Lincoln's address that transformed America. Then as now, we need a unifying idea and "a new birth of freedom."
And thank you, Faye. Yours is the big question on which the fate of society and democracy depends. I don't think there is a magic bullet. The first step is to calm the waters and try to restore normalcy to our political life. This involves staying the course, and for those of us on this side of the divide to continue to sustain our foundational values - reason, evidence, civility, moderation, etc. My best guess is that mitigation of extremism will begin to fade (not disappear) if we can close the wealth gap and enable people to feel secure in their economic wherewithal and future. The lack of an economic future breeds hopelessness, which causes an internal, parochial turn whereby the worst ideas can take hold and be reinforced. There is much, much more, but economic despair I believe is a major cause of social division, and ultimately extremism. Moral leadership and vision (a new Lincoln?) would also help.
Thanks - a mind opening deep consideration of the address - and the recognition of the wonderful historic site that this has be transformed into should be useful to many - a worthy visit - a good essay
And thank you, Jean.
Thanks for your thoughtful article. We certainly need unity at this time in our history!
Joe: Thanks for the tour and so well written, as usual.
But how do we deal with those who resist any unifying ideas and would deny the need for "a new birth of freedom" or even freedoms we now enjoy?
And thank you, Faye. Yours is the big question on which the fate of society and democracy depends. I don't think there is a magic bullet. The first step is to calm the waters and try to restore normalcy to our political life. This involves staying the course, and for those of us on this side of the divide to continue to sustain our foundational values - reason, evidence, civility, moderation, etc. My best guess is that mitigation of extremism will begin to fade (not disappear) if we can close the wealth gap and enable people to feel secure in their economic wherewithal and future. The lack of an economic future breeds hopelessness, which causes an internal, parochial turn whereby the worst ideas can take hold and be reinforced. There is much, much more, but economic despair I believe is a major cause of social division, and ultimately extremism. Moral leadership and vision (a new Lincoln?) would also help.
Excellent. Thanks, Joe!
My warm thanks, Sandy. Wishing you well in your new abode.
Thanks - a mind opening deep consideration of the address - and the recognition of the wonderful historic site that this has be transformed into should be useful to many - a worthy visit - a good essay
Many thanks, Vinny. I found the visit very enhanced by retaining a professional and extremely very informed guide.