A good image. The two-headed snake might also be described as a good cop-bad cop routine with the cops changing roles depending on who they're shaking down. Each party has its own assortment of captive constituencies; each one, come election time, says to them, "Granted, we haven't done a single thing for you, but look at how unspeakably horrible the other party is, and what awful things they'll do if they get power!!!" And, come election time, the chumps on both sides fall for it.

The actual differences between the policies pursued by the two parties can just about be measured with a micrometer, which is not surprising; both consist of cadres of lawyers and professional politicians who share the same basic beliefs, and are loyal to a system that gives them plenty of elbow room at the feeding trough.

One way out might be for one or more of the larger captive constituencies to break out of that role and start making the parties compete for its support. Yes, it's inconceivable in today's political climate, but the inconceivable is usually the best option.
John Michael Greer | 04.17.07 - 11:52 pm | #