This Really Sucks

Much has been said about the acrimony resulting from the Terri Schiavo affair. Glenn Reynolds sadly posts about the hate mail, the bitter attacks, and the friendships that seem to be slipping away. There have been controversies like this before, but this time it's become a near blood feud. Why is it different now?

Since the late 60's the media and the politicians have increasingly chosen to exploit our differences rather than forge our common interests. They magnify the extremes of our culture and ignore the moderate majority. Why would they do this? The media desires profit and accolades, the politicians want re-election. They both crave power.

The reaction to Terri Schiavo's situation is only a symptom of a greater, more horrible disease. It's not about the judiciary, nor is it about religion or the lack thereof. It's not even about life versus death. It's about what happens to a society when it's leadership sacrifices honor and integrity for power and status. And, it's about how a great nation begins to destroy itself.