Why can't we have civil discourse in our politics?

For those of you thinking about the themes of civil discourse, compromise, political parties, etc. this article just posted by USA Today  is a must-read.  I actually think it is good for everyone to read.

After Giffords shooting, civility still elusive: One year later, Americans and their elected leaders still struggle to show each other respect when opinions differ.

From a previous posting, here are some links that deal with the issue on modern American politics.

President Obama Asks Americans to Reflect on How We Talk to Each Other

Last school year, I showed most of the speech.  If you are interested in watching it, here it is:


University of Arizona to Open Civility Institute - NYTimes.com

http://nicd.arizona.edu/

http://www.pbs.org/newshour/bb/politics/jan-june11/publicmedia_01-13.html?print=

Don't Let Ignorant People Vote?

That was the suggestion from a recent opinion piece by CNN contributor LZ Granderson:.

"We all know people who gleefully admit they know nothing about politics, don't have time to find out what the current issues are or even know how the government works, but go out and vote. Want to know why it seems Washington is run by a bunch of idiots? Blame this hiccup in our political system for starters. What's a solution? Weed out some of the ignorant by making people who want to vote first pass a test modeled on the one given to those who want to become citizens."

The full essay can be read online; here he reads and reacts to some of the letters his essay generated:

Seattle's Homeless have one less option on Saturdays

It is always the poor and disadvantaged that suffer the most in hard economic times. Unfortunately sometimes it goes unnoticed because it isn't "news" that the poor are having a hard time. (Not as much as the new news that the middleclass, upper class, and businesses are taking a hit.)

So, it was nice to see some coverage in the Seattle Times this week. It is sad news however, sadder even that it seems like this place had to close down for a lack of volunteers.

Seattle's Saturday Kitchen closes its doors after 25 years