Hooded and booted

David Cameron, leader of the British Conservative party, is attempting to be the new Tony Blair. Not that that’s a bad idea, as Tony Blair has been remarkably successful, and has left his mark on society for years to come, which is the stamp of an important leader.

So when I read the following news report on the BBC News website, a small grin flickered on to my weary face.

Quote
Conservative leader David Cameron is expected to call for greater understanding of teenage “hoodies” in a forthcoming speech on social justice.
Source: Cameron to make ‘hoodie’ appeal, BBC News

The socialist inside of me usually views all statements by the Tory party with a seething anger, coupled with disbelief. But I agree with what the speech outlines, so here’s some select quotes:

Quote
He will describe hoodies as “a response to a problem, not a problem itself”.
Source: Cameron to make ‘hoodie’ appeal, BBC News

and…

Quote
“We – the people in suits – often see hoodies as aggressive, the uniform of a rebel army of young gangsters,” the Tory leader is expected to say.
Source: Cameron to make ‘hoodie’ appeal, BBC News

also…

Quote
However, he will go on: “For me, adult society’s response to the hoodie shows how far we are from finding the long-term answers to put things right.”
Source: Cameron to make ‘hoodie’ appeal, BBC News

So, do we view this as a shameless attempt by the right wing to ensnare voters? I hope not, but I guess we’ll never know. All I can guess is that it’s going to ruffle a lot of feathers from Middle England, which can only be a good thing.

Keep it coming, Mr. Cameron!

Photo: Altermedia UK

The test of a liberal

When I read (and agree whole-heartedly with) articles such as the following, I know I’m a liberal through and through. I just want the author of David Christ Superstar to know that the time he describes in his post is nigh, and hopefully sooner rather than later.

Quote
All I knew is that all my friends would joke about faggots and that if I ever came out of the closet, it would be nothing short of social suicide. It’s a horrible experience, and I would hope that no other generations of teens ever have to go through that. Fortunatly, laws like this are working to change that very problem.
Source: Sodomy to be taught in San Fracissyco (sic) elementary school!

Krugman, the NYT, and persecution

Whilst browsing the Internet, I stumbled upon this beautifully written article by Paul Krugman. It is a must read for any person who even remotely cares about the future of the US.

Quote
The nature of the right-wing attack on The New York Times — an attack not on the newspaper’s judgment, but on its motives — seems to have startled many people in the news media. After an editorial in The Wall Street Journal declared that The Times has what amount to treasonous intentions…
Source: The Treason Card, by Paul Krugman

I was slightly concerned, though, by the reply posted on Hennessy’s View, as it portrays perfectly the willingness of people to persecute detractors.

Quote
…Personally, the gas chamber is not enough for Keller and Krugman. I think they need a visit to Club Gitmo for a permanent vacation.
Source: Krugman Obfuscates

Photo credit: Office of Communications, Princeton University.