Ahh the joy of politics
Due to my being unable to happily go on about politics atm coz my sister is out, i think i'll add to the theme of the moment and rant about it a bit on here.
Firstly, i'd just like to state that knowing about politics, and being well versed in politics, by no stretch of the imagination indicates a better educated person then otherwise. To be well educated in politics is like being well educated in maths or physics. Sure, politics is very much a current affair, but those that don't take an interest or are more focused on other things are just as educated and important to society as the rest. I know for a fact that many of the brilliant surgeons that may save our lives one day, do not really care at all about politics, yet they are just as important to society as the local MP. This extends to all facets of society.
Secondly, in reference to the compulsory voting debate. I can't say i've read the arguement that others seem to be referring to. However, i remain to be convinced as to either way. The amount of informal votes in australia would indicate that compulsory voting isn't fantastic. But no system is perfect. Australia's system is very strong and has remained strong for 103 years. Yet even here, voting isn't in fact compulsory, due to the constitutional laws of secret ballot. Thus people do not have to vote, but must simply turn up and have their name ticked off. To ensure that all vote would be to compromise the constitutional right of every citizen to vote by secret ballot.
I am frustrated that i will not be eligible to vote until July next year, yet i do not see my interest in politics as being better educated, but simply having an interest, in the same way that i have interest in sport. I watch afl and english premier league every week, yet i also watch question time, lateline and the 730 report. These are my interests and are no more important then the interests of others that take no interest in politics.
Ahh the joy of a political rant. Now i feel like a real wank. Coolies. Now to lose myself in some mindless entertainment.
Firstly, i'd just like to state that knowing about politics, and being well versed in politics, by no stretch of the imagination indicates a better educated person then otherwise. To be well educated in politics is like being well educated in maths or physics. Sure, politics is very much a current affair, but those that don't take an interest or are more focused on other things are just as educated and important to society as the rest. I know for a fact that many of the brilliant surgeons that may save our lives one day, do not really care at all about politics, yet they are just as important to society as the local MP. This extends to all facets of society.
Secondly, in reference to the compulsory voting debate. I can't say i've read the arguement that others seem to be referring to. However, i remain to be convinced as to either way. The amount of informal votes in australia would indicate that compulsory voting isn't fantastic. But no system is perfect. Australia's system is very strong and has remained strong for 103 years. Yet even here, voting isn't in fact compulsory, due to the constitutional laws of secret ballot. Thus people do not have to vote, but must simply turn up and have their name ticked off. To ensure that all vote would be to compromise the constitutional right of every citizen to vote by secret ballot.
I am frustrated that i will not be eligible to vote until July next year, yet i do not see my interest in politics as being better educated, but simply having an interest, in the same way that i have interest in sport. I watch afl and english premier league every week, yet i also watch question time, lateline and the 730 report. These are my interests and are no more important then the interests of others that take no interest in politics.
Ahh the joy of a political rant. Now i feel like a real wank. Coolies. Now to lose myself in some mindless entertainment.