Our own concepts of ourselves are abused by the political manipulators.
Republicans serve up a distorted sense of selfhood, one which finds strength in globalization, and free trade zealousness.
The Democratic selfhood is one which is comprised of shame, and holding all americans accountable for the horrors our elites inflict on the world, though our democracy is a sham and the people are mostly not responsible.
Since these two parties are set in opposition to each other, the assumption is made that they are opposites in terms of ideology, but they are not.
If we look at the globalization and free trade zealousness of the "right", we find these will ultimately destroy the american people, The antagonists of the democratic narrative.
SO they're really just setting up a satisfying ending. They are dramatists first. Drama is the art of emotional manipulation.
This is so loaded with crap, I don't know where to start. First of all, there is no such word as "selfhood". It is some word you made up to describe "extremism" and contrast it with moderation. Like the word "personhood" defines the difference between born human beings and unborn human beings.
I am sure we can all sit here and revel in self-pity, being completely cynical and pessimistic about our government, our elected representatives, and our future, but honestly... what is the purpose? Wouldn't we be far better off, if people came here and articulated positive thoughts and ideas, and looked optimistically toward our future? It may seem like a little thing that doesn't make much difference, but I believe it makes all the difference in the world.
The evidence of proof I offer, is virtually anyone who has ever succeeded at something great. When they are celebrating their victory or accomplishment, you never hear them say... "Well, I am really surprised I made it, after all the obstacles our government put in the way, and the unfair advantage I was born with, being from a poor family, it's a wonder anyone can make it." No... you hear them thanking people who helped them along the way, you hear them give thanks to God, and you hear them praise America for being a nation which enabled them to achieve this success.
You see, pessimistic cynical thought, leads to despair, depression, anxiety, and a fundamental lack of motivation to accomplish anything meaningful in life. You simply can't overcome your own negative mind. You are forever a prisoner to your own cynicism. The chances of 'opportunity' just randomly dropping in your lap, are remote at best, but even in the event that happened, your own negativity and distrust would destroy the opportunity for you. Trapped in this pitiful hopelessness, you will resort to creating new words to describe your negative feelings, in hope of finding a sympathetic ear, because your pessimism feeds on itself. You need others to be pessimistic with you, and find agreement in your 'wisdom' as espoused through your cynical mind. This gives you the energy and strength to continue on, destroying your life.
We all have a limited time here. This is a fact we will all come to realize. Each moment of every day is special and important, and should never be consumed with negative bitter or cynical thinking. Yet, it is an easy trap to fall into, because it is always easier to make excuses for your failures in life. It is always easier to blame someone else for your problems, and find a way to excuse yourself for being the insignificant creature you've become. Once you've fallen into the trap, it is most likely hopeless for you, your mind will not let you escape, which is precisely why it is a trap.
You hear someone say, "The power of positive energy..." and you think... what a nut! But there is a fundamental importance to such a statement, it is true. Positive energy and thought, has positive influence and power. The more it is practiced, the more you understand its tremendous potential. It is often not easy to do, the forces of negativity are always there, pulling at our minds, trying to make us come on over and revel in self-pity, doubt, despair, because it's just easier that way. It takes determination and will, to keep a positive and optimistic outlook.
You will often bash religion, but many people have found the strength to live a positive and optimistic life through religion and belief in the power of God. I'm not saying there is anything to that, but it certainly seems to help for some. Personally, I have always been an optimist, and I can always see how things could be worse, no matter how bad things get in my life. I try to always find the 'upside' or the 'silver lining' to whatever cloud has cast its shadow over me, and I sometimes have to work very hard to remain positive.
People who commit suicide, are far more likely to be those who have allowed this pessimism and negative energy to consume them, to the point of no return. They simply can't bear the unhappiness any longer. Caught in this trap of the mind and unable to escape. Indeed, unable to realize they themselves hold the key to the trap. It starts with stopping your mind, and knowing. Not allowing your mind to be consumed with negativity and pessimism, and knowing that positive energy and thought fosters positive things, always.