David Brooks Is Disappointed that Politicians Are Not Philosophers

May 15, 2012

In a discussion of President Obama’s re-election prospects David Brooks bemoans the fact that:

“this race, like almost all re-election races, is shaping up to be a referendum on the incumbent, not a choice between two visions.”

When would an election ever be “a choice between two visions?” Why would anyone expect a politician to have a vision? Do accountants and truck drivers have visions?

Most probably do, but it is irrelevant to their jobs, just as a presidential candidate’s vision is irrelevant to their jobs. Winning elections is about getting the support of the people with the money and power to deliver votes. It is not clear why anyone would be looking for vision in this story.

Comments

Support Cepr

APOYAR A CEPR

If you value CEPR's work, support us by making a financial contribution.

Si valora el trabajo de CEPR, apóyenos haciendo una contribución financiera.

Donate Apóyanos

Keep up with our latest news