1/ The idea that everyone is corrupt is one of the most corrosive ideas in politics. It absolves anyone from particular blame, making corruption seem like the result of something in the water in DC. It removes the need for *us* to do any careful thinking. And worst of all ...
2/ ... it ensures that anyone who comes along to try to change this, who wants to promote a genuinely non-corrupt government, CANNOT be recognized and believed.
3/ We should never believe that someone is not corrupt just on their say-so. But neither should we blind ourselves to the very possibility that such a person could exist.
4/ Adding to this: the whole idea of democracy is that we should draw distinctions among the candidates, and vote for the one who best reflects our values and interests.
The idea that "they're all corrupt" flattens all distinctions.
The idea that "they're all corrupt" flattens all distinctions.
5/ The idea that all politicians are corrupt is therefore deeply undemocratic.
It feels so knowing and "realistic", but it's the exact opposite: a refusal to think clearly.
It feels so knowing and "realistic", but it's the exact opposite: a refusal to think clearly.
