The World Around You

“We need to internalize this idea of excellence. Not many folks spend a lot of time trying to be excellent.” - Barack Obama

Entries for October 11th, 2003

Thoughts on Michael Moore’s Latest

I just finished Michael Moore’s latest offering, Dude Where’s My Country? Mike doesn’t pretend he’s an intellectual, so don’t except him to be. However this well-written, but easy and quick read, hits the high points. He pulls together some of the stronger arguments for why this country is on the wrong path and proposes a solution. Recruit Oprah for President! He is also very positive on Wes Clark, but the overarching message is to get involved.

The sections I found particulary interesting dealt with how liberal we really are as a nation. When you get down to specific issues, the majority of Americans are in favor of the liberal position on the environment, gun control, affirmative action, universal health care, and equal opportunity. So why do the liberals struggle to get votes? According to Moore (and I whole-heartedly agree): (1) The electorate is afraid that liberals will raise their taxes and (2) The essence of being a liberal is the ability to bend and change, which can come off as wishy-washy.

None of this is new, but Mike does not leave it at that. He offers points of encouragement and ways to get involved. Visit his websites at www.michaelmoore.com and www.SpendMikesTaxCut.com for more information and pick up the book if you’re so inclined.

Daily Quicktakes

  • Pope John Paul II: He didn’t win the Nobel Peace Prize, as he celebrates his 25th anniversary. Who’s more peaceful than the Pope?
  • St. Louis: A judge there has put the Missouri concealed-carry law on hold. Put your gun away Grandma, you can’t pack that .45 in your purse just yet.
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