Team Spirit Sucks

I've never really enjoyed politics. For most of my life, I've ignored it like I do ads for Hummers and feminine supplies, hoping that if I did they would have no effect on me. But, over time, I realize that I'd better pay attention. Politics affects us all.

One of the aspects of politics that makes me want to scream is the mindless frenzy that people whip themselves into for their side, prompting hateful attacks against the other side. The thing is, I think most people don't evaluate their position at all. They don't consider the pros and cons of each candidate rationally, they just vote and support whoever is running for their side. Or they pick one issue, and that makes them choose a candidate regardless of any other important positions.

People have been raised to root for their side, and then stick with that side no matter what, and because they haven't analyzed their position, they get very defensive when challenged because they don't have much in the way of facts to support their position. So instead of responding with facts about their position, they just attack anyone who questions them, often attacking them personally because they can't speak to the issues.

This "my team all the time all the way no matter what" drives me crazy. If their candidate turned out to be a mass murderer who drank the blood of kittens I think some people would still follow them, because people seem willing to turn a blind eye to anything that sullies "their guy".

If you've read this far, I apologize. I must sound bitter, and if I was reading this I'd rue the time I'd spent reading it. But I think it feels good to get it off my chest. Maybe my next post will be about bunnies and unicorns.


Posted by Dave    Blog Tag: Opinion