Sam Smith wonders why BuzzFlash‘s traffic is equal to The Nation‘s.
This, reflecting our politics generally, represents a triumph of virulent antipathy towards the existing situation over the construction of an alternative worth fighting for, a tsunami of disgust and deconstruction overwhelming the creative, imaginative and hopeful.
BuzzFlash does reflect the virulency of politics generally and rejecting the one-sided polemics makes good sense ethically and creatively. Their headlines are on my site because I don’t watch television and the bare-knuckled visciousness of the show most Americans see on it is very relevant to understanding the political discourse overall. It’s a barometer, not an endorsement. I harbour no delusion they exist beyond serving the Democratic party but I don’t think The Nation ultimately does, either. Lest we forget The Nation, like so many “progressives,” remained uncritical of Kerry during his campaign no matter how Bush-like he became or repugnant his ideas. But I think the point Smith is making is that untill meek progressives have a leadership that actually reflects their values they have no business criticising Republicans for not doing so. Bravo on that. I also don’t think they’re looking for an alternative. There’s money and fame to be had playing this game.
Does it distract those looking for one from finding an alternative?
No more than witnessing a car wreck keeps one from getting to a destination.