Rivers of Exile

Sliding towards thirdworldism April 24, 2006

Posted by Delilah in : US , trackback

To many, while rich and powerful, the US never came across as a particularly enlightened place, as a whole. Despite some serious attempts in states such as California or major cities like NY, the dominant theme is not one of progress. The religiosity, prudishness and militarism have always been an accepted fact of life. Some 20th century issues are still up for debate and social oppobrium: abortion, homosexuality and, in the past 5 years, we’ve had a stupid “debate” about crazy stuff like creationism forced down our collective throat.
Other, even more ominous signs of thirdworldism are flashing red lights all over the place. For example:

Generals are lining up to overthrow the civilian regime. If this tag line for the Salon article doesn’t sound 3rdworldish, I don’t know what does, frankly.

Two retired generals and an admiral denounce his leadership — and say he’s protected by a handpicked ring of high-ranking yes men.

The public - concerned with governance and matters of state - is reduced to guessing games, gossip and theater. That’s all the media has, so anyone can theorize.