Societal Division: The New Math

I am not going to go into some long dissertation about the events of the past several days. We have seen quite enough of it all.

I will say that I see a recurring theme... Unity (or should I say they lack of it?)

It seems our nation (and our area) find reasons to split about anything. The phrase "there is always two sides to the story" has never been more true. Equally true would be the phrase, "Disharmony is a way of life."

Conservatives vs. Liberals
White vs. Black
Republicans vs. Democrats
Truck Stops vs. Neighborhoods (Did that hit a little too close to home?)
North Louisiana vs. South Louisiana
North Bossier vs. South Bossier

I thought long and hard about the things that split our society. First and foremost, I am not referring to spirited debate or differences of opinion. This is about "irreconcilable differences."

Two things come to mind when I think of the divsion in our society - money and power. Usually, these splits are rooted in one or the other, or both.

There is no fundraising for certain groups if there is unity. Why would we need to campaign for change if all is well?

Unity erodes the power of those who rose to there current level of influence during divisive times.

Power and influence brought about through division often corrupts the empowered individual. What once may have been a noble effort with the best of intentions, often becomes an effort of self preservation. If all is well, the "advocate" is no longer needed.

And old marketing concept is as follows: "If you want someone to change to your brand, you have to make them change their mind about their current brand." Face it, can you really tell a difference between digital cable and satellite TV? Seriously, there are definite differences, but each will tell you how far superior they are to the competitor.

The same is true with our society. There are those who will tell you that things are far worse than imagined. No progress has been made, or some other group is getting more than their fair share. The aim is to divide and to elevate those who are "beating the drum."

Before you break out your checkbook with a contribution to this cause or that cause. Before you sign this petition or that petition. Before you become outraged at the issue. Take a moment to look closely to see if there is really something there - or is it just "Societal Division."

Division never added anything to anyone.

May The Blog Be With You.