I don't think its as simple as all that, though a lot of people would like to paint it that way.
I haven't seen many of the anti-Bush crowd say they honestly felt that Kerry was going to be their shining knight leading the world into a peaceful and prosperous future. One major indicator of this is that I haven't seen ANY anguish over Kerry missing his chance to lead. Most people that supported him did so because he was not-Bush, and they're now complaining because Bush is still in power, not that Kerry isn't.
In much the same way many people that supported Bush didn't see Kerry as a viable alternative. I'm not going to go around and say I really really like Bush, though I don't doubt there are those that do. IMO Kerry would not do as good a job dealing with all the issues of the day. Not much of an endorsement of our political process I'm afraid, but its the one we have.
You'd think that most gardeners would be nature lovers, yet there are some that chop down their trees and rip up their shrubs and put lawns in their place. There's all sorts of gardeners
I don't feel its correct that the Bush administration is openly hostile to the environment, but I won't present a lot of arguments against that here. There is more to this then just big business vs the environment and should be a topic all on its own.
I also don't believe that a population that junks up things the way we do really deep down cares as much about it as they say they do. The environment is a lot closer then the arctic or the nearest rainforest
-- its right outside the door.
IMO the whole issue needs to be reopened to decide what is right and what is wrong, and what we can do to preserve the environment. We will never be able to go back to they way things were, and we need to create policies and make plans that are rational, achievable, and able to work in the world we have. I don't think that's really been done since the 70s, but it would be a hard thing to do. There just seems to be too much anger around for that to happen.
Yes, we are just like everybody else. I think Bush is proud of being an American, and is disappointed that we don't have more support around the world, but I really haven't seen that "we are better then everyone else" attitude.
He has the attitude that he is going to do what he thinks is right, and to hell with what the rest of the world wants. that's not the same thing, but I can see how that could create that perception. I don't know of any other reason you would feel this way.
Again I don't see it.
Your views and beliefs have the same weight as any christians, and your vote counts just as much. But all people have to make their decisions based on their beliefs, whether they are atheists or christians. Some of the arguments I've had are with posters that seem to imply christians should check their beliefs at the door and act as de facto atheists. People can't do that and shouldn't. Everyone has to work within their beliefs and do what they feel is right.
Religion has always been part of the political process, but this is the first time that I can recall it being an object of fear. There are no laws being passed that promote christianity as the state religion, and I sincerely believe this is a misguided fear.
I don't doubt that I'll be flamed again, but I don't mind. :)
I'm not much of a communicator, so I don't know if I've answered your questions. My main point has been that things aren't as black and white as some are trying to make them. Few voted for Bush because they are mean, evil, racist, stupid, ignorant or just love to be at war.
I don't agree with some of the things you have concerns about, but you've been one of the few that have actually tried to have a rational discussion about any of these topics. You asked some reasonable questions, you didn't shout or insult me, and I attempted to reply in kind. At least I hope I did.
There are far too many lines drawn in the sand, too much anger and intolerance, and too many people that aren't willing to listen.
Swyck