Us versus Them
As we have seen and still see in the vast majority of countries around the world, politics and social commentary is divisive. This Manichean discourse is highly damaging not only to what is left of democracy but to society as a whole.
The ability to listen to someone else’s point of view and see in it what can be harnessed seems to be disappearing at an alarming rate. I am not talking of the sections of society that holds rigidly fixed ideas, but instead the lack of openness which is now spreading through discussions between anyone with different opinions. It can be argued that perhaps this is because we are seeking self-validation to the detriment our humanity.
When humans seek common understanding and knowledge for the betterment of society, we see social, economic, technological, scientific, and environmental progress.
We are entering an era in which as people we need to assemble to think and behave not in our own interest but in the interest of all; in the interest of life.
Beyond Political Division
There is a need to go beyond partisan politics, to come together to create at a local scale an impetus for change. It is easy to vote for Tweedle Dum and Tweedle Dee and pretend that this time will be different, but we cannot continue lying to ourselves out of chosen ignorance. It is a collective choice to elect over and over the people who will continue making the same mistakes as the last. Making the choice for new people and ways of thinking can be uncomfortable but it creates real change and often times makes a difference.
We cannot leave politics in the hand of politicians or political Messiahs with their horse trading, backroom deals or compromises “for the greater good”.
If we open our eyes to this form of politics we can clearly see a paralysis of action. There will always be the gestures and crumbs given to mollify the populace while oftentimes neglecting to change anything meaningful for the majority. In summary, we are living in a democratic feudalistic society.
Working Together
There is an appetite to see effective and pragmatic changes beyond party politics. An apolitical approach is required to create a more just, equitable, environmentally responsible society. We see peoples’ trust in the political system and media vanishing and this mistrust is spreading.
It is time to reassess our so called democratic system and realise that only a more fluid style of democracy – more rooted in the local or regional units – small enough to listen and give a voice to the citizens and yet large enough to realise the international ramifications of the decisions made. A democracy where the goals are not for the individuals’ self interest, but for the gain of society as a whole.
With our citizen initiative Bretagne – Ma Vie, we want to discuss, collaborate, speak to you and act on all these vital issues.
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Patrick Regnault