Disconnect

Yesterday YouTube coordinated the first candidates' debate online. Users submitted their video questions and candidates responded. Same bullshit, different medium.

In response to the standard Axis of Evil question, Barack Obama apparently demonstrated his inexperience by claiming that under his presidency he would speak unconditionally with leaders of America's greatest enemies in the world. Since the debate, other candidates, most notably his chief rival Hillary Clinton, have claimed that due to this answer he is unqualified to be president.

So what's the lesson here? Let's make it more concrete than international politics. Say you have a disagreement with someone you live with. Is the best option to sit and stew, damage your relationship irreparably and wait for a moment when you have more power so you can dominate your housemate? Or is the best option to have a frank and respectful conversation, admit your flaws, express your concerns and most importantly listen to what your housemate has to say.

Which is the most constructive? Which is likely to lead to the best outcome for all the parties concerned?

Most parents would likely be inclined to teach their children that the latter response is best. However it seems that the politicians, military leaders and business leaders that run Washington weren't paying attention when their parents taught them this lesson. Or perhaps the private schools that they attended taught power and domination relentlessly.

I wonder where Barack Obama went to school (private of course) because with that insightful and refreshing answer, he'll never be president.