Reclaiming the republic

In this video, Lawrence Lessig talks about the corruption at the heart of American politics. He says it was caused by the dependence of Congressional candidates on funding from the tiniest percentage of citizens. I don’t know anyone who would argue with that, but what next?

It seems to me that Lessig argues, basically, a Nike-esque “just do it” response, and I think that’s a cop out. Of course people should do something, but what?! That's why I think his response is ultimately a cop-out.

I like TED talks—a lot. At their best, they’re thought-provoking, challenging, even infuriating. At their worst, they’re shallow, empty and ill-focused, and for me, this is one of those times: WTF are mainstream people supposed to DO?!

Still, I think there’s some value in at least merely talking about the issues. But talk is not enough.

If Americans really want to reclaim their republic from the oligarchs, then they need to DO something. This video doesn’t provide the needed tools.