American political commentary is endlessly fascinating. It can also be irritating, depressing, and exhausting, depending on how much emotion the audience invests in the experience. It is informative but can also be misleading. No matter what the venue, a responsible citizen should seek to establish the truth behind what is said or written. This, of course, is easier said than done.
Today America is a country of sharp divisions. Racial tensions still flare up, conservatives passionately debate with progressives, and there are many differences on the economy, foreign policy, the role of government, and the national debt that keep heated discussions going. The branches of the federal government have trouble working together, and many private citizens think that all policy makers are ruled by money rather than by concern for the good of America.
Conservative and liberal talk show hosts, media columnists, and news anchors become celebrities, as people confused by the complexity of the issues turn to them for information and guidance. Unfortunately, the world view of every commentator comes into play and dictates what will be discussed or emphasized. This is clear from the wide difference in what is reported in daily talk shows, broadcasts, online sites, or newspapers.
The mainstream media seems determined to steer public opinion in a liberal direction by seizing on every error on the conservative side and glossing over mistakes made by the administration and Congress. Major legislation is ignored while celebrities are given headline attention.
Many conservatives are Christians, with a world view that dictates their politics. Unfortunately, this viewpoint might make no sense whatsoever to others. Christians look to God for guidance and provision, and are notorious all over the world for embracing personal freedom and resisting tyranny. They don't believe that government should control social issues or that government should decide moral questions.
Without such playing field levelers as a balanced budget amendment, an objective media, and an involved and informed citizenry, policy is pretty much dictated by who spends the most money to influence policymakers and voters. Entrenched politicians tend to vote the party line without considering all the consequences of legislation, issues get too involved and complicated for even lawmakers to understand, and people get used to benefits they receive and don't want to make sacrifices.
Just think about the controversies that rage today in America. Should we support Israel or the Palestinians? Should we give amnesty to illegal aliens? Should we regulate public schools from the federal level or let the states run education? Should we bail out troubled banks and other companies - often regulated by government to an extreme degree - or let them make it on their own? Should we limit free speech and freedom of religion or let people's consciences guide their actions?
American political commentary has lots to say about all of these topics. Depending on how much emotion you invest in the political scene, you may feel burned out or you may decide to get involved one way or another. Differences of opinion can be good, if they result in wise decisions. That's what we're all praying for.
Today America is a country of sharp divisions. Racial tensions still flare up, conservatives passionately debate with progressives, and there are many differences on the economy, foreign policy, the role of government, and the national debt that keep heated discussions going. The branches of the federal government have trouble working together, and many private citizens think that all policy makers are ruled by money rather than by concern for the good of America.
Conservative and liberal talk show hosts, media columnists, and news anchors become celebrities, as people confused by the complexity of the issues turn to them for information and guidance. Unfortunately, the world view of every commentator comes into play and dictates what will be discussed or emphasized. This is clear from the wide difference in what is reported in daily talk shows, broadcasts, online sites, or newspapers.
The mainstream media seems determined to steer public opinion in a liberal direction by seizing on every error on the conservative side and glossing over mistakes made by the administration and Congress. Major legislation is ignored while celebrities are given headline attention.
Many conservatives are Christians, with a world view that dictates their politics. Unfortunately, this viewpoint might make no sense whatsoever to others. Christians look to God for guidance and provision, and are notorious all over the world for embracing personal freedom and resisting tyranny. They don't believe that government should control social issues or that government should decide moral questions.
Without such playing field levelers as a balanced budget amendment, an objective media, and an involved and informed citizenry, policy is pretty much dictated by who spends the most money to influence policymakers and voters. Entrenched politicians tend to vote the party line without considering all the consequences of legislation, issues get too involved and complicated for even lawmakers to understand, and people get used to benefits they receive and don't want to make sacrifices.
Just think about the controversies that rage today in America. Should we support Israel or the Palestinians? Should we give amnesty to illegal aliens? Should we regulate public schools from the federal level or let the states run education? Should we bail out troubled banks and other companies - often regulated by government to an extreme degree - or let them make it on their own? Should we limit free speech and freedom of religion or let people's consciences guide their actions?
American political commentary has lots to say about all of these topics. Depending on how much emotion you invest in the political scene, you may feel burned out or you may decide to get involved one way or another. Differences of opinion can be good, if they result in wise decisions. That's what we're all praying for.
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