EVO-lution!

THE GUEST FROM DC spins things a bit, and positions the landslide win as positive because of alleged anti-cocaine programs promised by Morales. She also explains Morales’ policies’ popularity as a formulaically-minded “2/3 of the nation is poor and 1/3 is very poor” fashion, concluding that this is why his social programs are popular…as if being a leader who takes seriously the health of the entire electorate is not in and of itself commendable and endearing of a leader. The point of view seems to assume that if the country were, overall, a bit less obviously poverty-stricken (like the USA?) it need not worry itself with the impoverished. Also troublesome is the presentation of Morales’ programs as very astutely “targeted,” “highly visible” and thus “popular.”

While the flash-bout of US-centric punditry results in some positive words about the collective rising power of Latin America, I can’t help but conclude that some mindsets preclude the absorption of truth, even when in front of them, instead choosing cynical and somewhat condescending political frames.

To my way of thinking, anyone representing—on TV or otherwise—the economic, social, spiritual, and moral implosion that is today’s USA should aspire to a bit more humility when discussing the successes found in movements outside our borders. They might see things that could help them. Or us.