Came across this program recently representing a viewpoint that I feel is worth examining. Many important messages have been lost by the overwhelming, and misdirected method by which they’re delivered. The “what” never gets past the “how.” Utilizing the proverbial shell game, the decision-makers spin, misdirect, or simply fabricate to further their respective goals, whatever those may be. The observation that public relations is more important than public policy has serious validity.

Unfortunately, no one seems to be immune. The case made in the program regarding the escalation of the perils of Martha Stewart over that of Ken Lay is a poignant one if nothing else. More recently the American Democrats have recently employed the same tactics, focusing the upcoming election on “emotional revelations” and “camera presence” rather than legislative platforms.Unfortunately charisma as a major factor in society is nothing new (see section A.1.d). The distinction being a factor as opposed to the entire basis for the process of making a determination.  The need for substance behind the façade has all but disappeared. Ultimately, once this ethical ‘gold standard’ had been removed, the fluctuations and potential outcomes become noticeably more volatile. The rationale that, one could argue, guided the intellectuals to making the greater good possible has been overridden by popularity and charm.  

The program presents the view that it is in fact the rhetoric surrounding the current dialogue in American politics that is in fact most dangerous. Not the stances themselves.