Many social critics often portray Americans as apathetic, overly consumed by reality television and uninterested in important matters. While this perspective has some merit, it overlooks the fact that many Americans are engaged and motivated. Yes, it’s true that the average American’s waistline has expanded over the years, and casual attire has become normalized, but many still strive for improvement in their lives, even if the odds seem stacked against them.
When it comes to politics, passion runs deep. The mere mention of a presidential election can ignite fervent emotions, rallying even the most disengaged individuals to voice their opinions, often without full comprehension of the issues at hand.
What resonates most with the public is the right to vote and the freedom to express their choices—often overshadowing the urgency of making informed decisions. Yet, the options presented in these elections tend to veer from disappointing to downright appalling.
But, in spite of these shortcomings, can there really be a more captivating spectacle anywhere in the world?
Today, we divert from our usual discussions about the follies of finance to examine the absurdities surrounding presidential elections—and provide insights into how these elections are actually won. Read on for a detailed exploration.
The Absurdities of Presidential Elections
In contemporary society, democracy is often confused with true liberty. Nonetheless, Americans cherish their right to vote for president, regardless of their actual participation. The focus isn’t necessarily on who is the best candidate for the role, but rather on who emerges victorious.
This dynamic transforms presidential elections into a competitive spectacle, reminiscent of a professional sports event where cheating is part of the game. Voters align themselves with their preferred candidate like fans rooting for a team, eagerly anticipating victory. The winning party delights in the downfall of its rival, while the loser promises to regroup for the next fight.
Take, for instance, the current presidential race with figures like Mitt and Barack. They seem more like caricatures than real individuals, hardly fitting to lead something as significant as a local Kiwanis Club, let alone the nation.
Ultimately, the contest is less about individual candidates and more about party allegiance—Republican versus Democrat. Pundits and commentators weigh in, while politicians engage in a robust verbal battle leading up to Election Day.
The most entertaining moments arise when candidates make nonsensical statements, providing ample opportunity for laughter and critique from their opponents. We at Economic Prism find such episodes delightfully entertaining.
Regardless of the outcome—hanging chads and all—there is usually a clear winner and loser. Our firsthand experiences lead us to conclude that the methods by which presidential elections are won might not be what you expect. Here’s what we mean…
How Presidential Elections Are Won
Years ago, I worked at a massive wastewater treatment plant where the outputs of around 2.5 million people’s toilets converged. This unglamorous facility might go unnoticed, but it plays a crucial role in any civilized society. In reality, wastewater treatment plants are incredibly complex venues filled with valuable lessons.
At a plant, wastewater is first filtered through bar screens before entering primary clarifiers for initial processing. These large settling basins use gravity to allow solids to settle at the bottom, resulting in what is termed “sludge.” This sludge is then further treated before being transported away for disposal.
Yet, not all waste sinks to the bottom. Some of it inevitably floats, creating a substance known as “scum.” This phenomenon serves as a critical metaphor for understanding how presidential elections function.
Much like the wastewater treatment process, the presidential election sequentially sifts through candidates from the primaries to the nominating convention and beyond. Most candidates gradually fade away, settling at the bottom, with only a select few managing to rise to the top.
Ultimately, on Election Day, a single candidate rises above the rest—not through merit or capability, but as the scum of the political landscape.
Sincerely,
MN Gordon
for Economic Prism
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