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We’re a deeply pessimistic nation, poll reveals
I read a new Wall Street Journal poll about how Americans view the United States and I found it dispiriting.
Doubts about the foundations of our democracy were rife in the responses:
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Only 33% were optimistic about the way our leaders are chosen — through elections —under our political system.
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Just 32% were optimistic about our very system of government.
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And looking at another institution fundamental to that system of government, 66% said they view the Supreme Court as making decisions based on the political views of the justices, not on the Constitution and the law.
Finally, about 6 in 10 were pessimistic about the American dream — which has long been out of reach for many minorities in this country. But now it’s no longer even viewed as an aspirational goal at the heart of the promise of America. As one respondent interviewed by the Journal said:
The data paints a grim picture of who we are today. So how do we respond? Where do we find hope?
My only answer — and it’s admittedly a sentimental notion — is that we personally treat each other with respect and acknowledge our shared humanity.
Good will alone can’t transcend systemic divisions in society. But it can lead us to a place where we can be caring, generous neighbors and respectful members of our communities. And even if we are losing some faith in our institutions, we still vote, we still pay our taxes, we still act as good citizens.
To act as if we still believe in what we want our country to be may be our only real hope.
I hope you agree. Now for our regular political coverage.
— Bill Nigut
8.7.3
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