It seemed odd that former President Carter credited racism as a reason for the objections to Obama’s policies. Then again, I've learned not to dismiss an idea simply because it doesn't fit my preference. Racism isn't as easy to identify as it is often portrayed. Even the person being discriminated against may not know that it is happening. It is equally possible that, due to the ever present reality of racial tension and past abuses, people overuse this unfortunate, but true fact of American life. It could be, that the kind of racism former President Carter is speaking of is, the kind of racism where a white man sees a black man with a pretty blond girlfriend/wife and feels something less than positive.
Racism can be as simple as a visceral reaction or as blatant as a white hood. People don't want to admit racism when it might reflect poorly on them or distract from what they are trying to accomplish. Is it possible that racism plays a part?
Openess to change and new ideas seems to breed fear and most conservative thinkers, according to the research I've seen, and the conservatives I've witnessed, are not very open to change or new ideas. Everything needs to be laid out for them, from what to believe in, which party to support, to how the world will eventually end. Their thinking tends to be moralistic, and anyone who doesn't fit their moral view is suspect or worse, vilified.
To be sure, all the strange accusations about Obama, from questioning his place of birth to his religious affiliation are based on irrational and unhelpful thinking. This line of unreasonable thinking is usually rooted in fear not evidence. As much as people want the same things, like peace, strong families, a strong economy and good government, many people differ on how to achieve this. The end goal usually isn't the problem. It is the method and fervor people utilize with which to achieve what they believe to be correct. It is the source of these beliefs people should question before we even consider the method, fervor or behavior.
Fallacious thinking occurs when both right and left ideologically thinking groups pick sides over facts. They prefer their way of thinking verses accurate or helpful thinking. People don't really care to find the truth as much as they want to prove the other person or group wrong. This is because people like to feel good about themselves and no one wants to be wrong simply because it feels bad when we are wrong or make a mistake. If we allow our pride to rule it will degenerate into an us versus them argument. One tribe pitted against another. Truth, accuracy or helpfulness is rarely associated with this kind of tribal attitude.
In the scheme of things, racism most likely plays a part, but racism is hardly the heart of the problem. It's the irrational and unhelpful beliefs furthered by fear and anxiety. It's thoughts and ideas people harbor when they are confronted with something new and uncomfortable. It's the refusal to consider another alternative. It's the refusal to believe that my beliefs could be wrong, but more importantly, it is the narcissistic refusal to believe that "I" could be wrong.
Carter was considered a fool back in the 70's when he tried to warn our country about dependence on foreign fuel. Now look at us. He may be a fool, or he could be a brilliant prophet.
What's the old saying, "Even a prophet is without honor in his own town?"
Peace!
Bill J.
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