Campaign Donations
For a long time I'd been annoyed at the omnipresence of money in politics. I'm gradually recognizing that it's really just the omnipresence of money in everything and that I shouldn't be too concerned. We do spend a lot of money on our political contests--but as Romney learned in Iowa, New Hampshire, South Carolina, and Florida, spending copiously doesn't guarantee election. And while I don't like the ads about how bad somebody's opponent is, I think that some amount of advertising can level the playing field so candidates with less immediate name recognition can compete.
Anyway, I decided that small donations to a campaign could actually lead to positive things both for us as individuals and as a country. As individuals, a small financial stake in the process effectively crystallizes our involvement. It gives us a stake in the process. And as a country, an increase in small donations can lead to campaign funding more accurately reflecting actual support. I wrote my full thoughts, and a plea for your money, here: Democratize Democracy: Give to a Campaign.
Anyway, I decided that small donations to a campaign could actually lead to positive things both for us as individuals and as a country. As individuals, a small financial stake in the process effectively crystallizes our involvement. It gives us a stake in the process. And as a country, an increase in small donations can lead to campaign funding more accurately reflecting actual support. I wrote my full thoughts, and a plea for your money, here: Democratize Democracy: Give to a Campaign.