POLITICS AND NATURE

"It has been frequently remarked that it seems to have been reserved to the people of this country, by their conduct and example, to decide the important question, whether societies of men are really capable or not of establishing good government from reflection and choice, or whether they are forever destined to depend for their political constitutions on accident and force." Federalist #1, Alexander Hamilton

Liberty and Choice

Anyone watching the news over the next four days will hear New Hampshire's state motto ad infinitum. They pride themselves on their independence and libertarian leanings. It's a gun toting, anti governmental interference state. People there like John McCain and probably Ron Paul. Romney is touting getting the "Silver Medal" in Iowa as if it was anything but a disastrous loss and a huge waste of money, trying to remind people of his work on the Olympic committee, and jousting with McCain over who will be an agent of change. It seems everyone is looking for change.

The question posed by Hamilton above began a series of articles entitled the Federalist Papers, written by Hamilton, John Jay, and James Madison, supporting what was then a fledgling structure framed by the Constitution which supported the creation of a republic combining elements of democratic, aristocratic, and executive powers in the pursuit of a different type of government than the world had ever seen. Each election cycle it is left to voters to re-affirm the importance of reflection and choice. This is the tip of the iceburg in terms of citizen ability to affect systemic change.

The encouraging elements involved in today's political climate include the engagement shown in Iowa. Before it's all over, people will be searching for a rock to crawl under to avoid politics in general and politicians in particular. Initial exercises in republican activity highlight people's desires to craft the national future. Presidential elections offer a referendum on where the country is, what people want it to do, and how to shape tomorrow.

Dirty Politics

The creation of a republic is never over. Every candidate claims the support of the American people as they are a monolithic creature ruling the roost with one collective mind. People invariably become disenchanted because American government is inefficient, unwieldy, and divisive. What many don't comprehend is the most important feature of "government of the people, by the people, and for the people", involve different stakeholders with various ideals and often opposing views. Not enough emphasis is placed upon the need to think creatively and to embrace differences.

It is refreshing, if boring, to see the work of government in action through the likes of C-Span. For those who cringe at the idea of weekly meetings at the office, imagine the endless need to examine issues like taxes, education, and health care, in the Senate buildings. There are so many people involved in crafting change and this process of presidential politics brings millions of people into this system. In order to live free, we must think freely and take action. I look forward to this year 2008 because ideas will be examined and the race for the 44th presidency will activate the imaginations and ideals of the people of this nation.

Politics can be dirty just like business. The more people become disengaged, the more likely it is democratic governance will die off and leave tyranny in its wake. Opposing beliefs are strengthened through discourse. The next president will stand at the top of the world. Hopefully, with an engaged public the emergent leader will work for a prosperous and just future.