On elections
I've been reflecting recently on what window into the human psyche the electoral season offers us. Namely, how the burning desire for security and reassurance in this time of unpredictability in the face of great stakes turns everyone -- even the most even-tempered of big-picturists -- into raving statistic whores.
Or at least it's sure turned me.
Why am I unable to stop looking at poll results? Why is it that when I checked in on Proposition 8 (our constitutional same-sex marriage ban here in CA) a week or two ago and saw 48% in favor and 45% against, I was palpably anxious and sad, but now that I've seen a newer poll showing 47% in favor and 50% against, I feel suddenly relieved and happy?
Both of these polls leave enough undecideds to take it either way, and have a margin of error of ±4%, making both of those poll results statistically tied and impossible to call, but they brought about noticeable changes in my mood regardless. It's irrational, but those little numbers still hold a weird power, and I feel compelled to have the latest numbers, even though they won't influence my actions from now until voting day in any real what whatsoever.
All they can do is send that emotional rollercoaster off on another lap, but for whatever reason, it's a ride I'm unwilling or unable to get off.
Or at least it's sure turned me.
Why am I unable to stop looking at poll results? Why is it that when I checked in on Proposition 8 (our constitutional same-sex marriage ban here in CA) a week or two ago and saw 48% in favor and 45% against, I was palpably anxious and sad, but now that I've seen a newer poll showing 47% in favor and 50% against, I feel suddenly relieved and happy?
Both of these polls leave enough undecideds to take it either way, and have a margin of error of ±4%, making both of those poll results statistically tied and impossible to call, but they brought about noticeable changes in my mood regardless. It's irrational, but those little numbers still hold a weird power, and I feel compelled to have the latest numbers, even though they won't influence my actions from now until voting day in any real what whatsoever.
All they can do is send that emotional rollercoaster off on another lap, but for whatever reason, it's a ride I'm unwilling or unable to get off.