Quote:
Originally posted by pocon1
I think Bush is a divider. for instance, the trip to Mars? is it really necessary? Many people don't think it is, and it has not captured the public's imagination, therefore it is not uniting. When Kennedy sent us to the moon, we were in the Cold War, and this was seen as a major victory. Al Qeada is not sending anyone to Mars.
Also, about the prescription plan. It is not just designed to help the needy, which everyone supports. It is designed tp give money to everyone, including those who can otherwise afford it. That is the waste. Govt prescription plans are designed to help those who most need it. Bush was hunting for money from the very powerful and wealthy AARP, aho will organize votes for him.
For instance, he could have compromised on the Kyoto accords. I did not agree with the Kyoto accords as they were written, but compromises could have been made. He just walked away from them and did nothing to make the situation better. That is just one major example of how he divided people in the US and divided the US from much of the rest of the world.
|
You're right, the Mars mission hasn't captured the public's attention yet but if you see the number of hits and the coverage of the current Mars exploration, it seems like it might. There are many reasons beyond terrorism to think a unifying goal would be helpful.
America is becoming increasingly diverse (meaning fewer and fewer commonalities among the citizens), the level of criticism towards America (the reasons why not withstanding) from the outside is growing (or being paid particular attention by the press), the recent tragedy within the US space program and a growing interest in space from China, Japan, and the EU in the face of that disaster all make me think that a renewed space program would do a lot to foster a sense of hope, pride, achievement, etc among citizens.
As far as the prescription plan, again, you are absolutely right. It's not just geared to the "needy" but I think there are good reasons why it shouldn't be. Healthcare expenses are growing. Corporations are cutting prescription/health benefits for retirees. In some cases a single prescription can be a big hurdle to a retiree. I pointed to MS as one example. There are others. Any disease which is chronic and not too widespread can fall into that category. The reason the MS treatment is so expensive is that there are relatively few people with the condition from whom to recoup the cost of drug development. Without the prospect of being paid for their efforts, drug companies will ignore the small niche markets like MS.
I won't go into my feelings on the Kyoto stuff, but agree that not signing it was divisive.