General political rhetoric in the U.S. is a little bit like Gang Wars in the early 90s in South Cental L.A. between the Bloods and the Cripps. Democrats vs. Republicans. Liberals v. Conservatives. Granted, it is understood that many politicians hold more moderate views, and there are other parties, most notably the Independent party, but overall our country swings the arm of the pendulum with one side or the other. We're taught it. Our parents are often associated with a particular party, Republican or Democrat. Bush, for example, can be seen as a moderate. But he is still a Republican. And the problem with this type of routine system of socialized politics seems to be that we're not left to freely explore other options. Particularly in the game of modern American politics, candidates have to satisfy their constitutes -- who just so happen to belong to one party or the other. And let's face it ... Independent candidates are few and far between, not to mention very underrated. It might be nice to see a politician with no affiliation. But who would support that candidate? I might -- if they were good. I do believe that some of the newer, younger politicians out there are actively working to change this aspect of the political domain, but even Barack belongs to one of the powerhouse parties.

I think that the way we run our country goes hand in hand with the way we think about the world around us. It is pretty obvious that Americans have strong value systems, and it seems that we feel a need to push those beliefs upon the rest of the world. We no doubt already have such a strong presence in the rest of the world that permeates to some of the poorest parts of Africa, the Middle East and even in Asian countries like Indonesia. We are mostly portrayed through the media though, and nothing can compare to actual experience. Nonetheless, we Americans tend to think others should live the way we live. But that is not a realistic proposition, even if it is "right". The two party political system seems like a testament to our narrow tunnel vision of ideology and practical living.

I'm not sure that I have a point here, or even a real opinion about this one way or the other. But I do think that it is essential to recognize ourselves in this way, especially when we approach life with such overwhelming outspokenness and egocentricity.