POLITICS: A Game, a War, or a Lost Craft?

A worrisome perspective of a 26 year old on political activity

BARE WITH ME

As a member of an academic-educated family, contentious debates about politics have been, ever since I can recall, an essential theme of discussion.

I do not wish to disregard academics and passionate individuals who are driven by the essential activities that govern our environments. I do know however, that I have oftentimes felt ashamed for not being able to feel part or even worse, admire, respect or feel curiosity for many popular members that govern or structure our societies. In point of fact, quite the opposite ( Recently, after our Christmas dinner I went to bed as I could not, despite an incredible effort, feel any sort of interest towards the heated political debate that was going on between my family members.) — “Why was that” I THOUGHT.

I understand that knowledge, accessibility, personal interest, are all elements that diverge between individuals. In fact, I believe there will always be individuals that are more driven towards political activities than others. This does not mean, however, that a complete and utter disinterest should abide within the individuals that are let’s say ‘less passionate.’

I have for some time been reading tweets encouraging individuals to engage in political activity (which is great) BUT:

A few things came to mind that made me realise why I, for instance, seem to avoid engagement or lack discernment when it comes to politics:

I. Anger and Lack of Tolerance

It has come to my attention that whenever I listen to political debates, ideas or projects imparted by both, individuals in/interested to access power or common citizens who wish to live in better conditions, tones of anger, impatience, rage arise. HONESTLY, ALL THE TIME. My point is, the grand majority (not all) seem to express their political ideas with anger/stubbornness/ingenuity/desperation without explaining their thoughts with gentleness. Is it not possible to have constructive political debates, whereby individuals express, explain and reflect calmly their thoughts? I do not see very often tolerant political conversations. Everyone seems to want to stick to their view no matter what.

I SEE THIS ( Dinner Screams) :

WHEN IT WOULD BE NICER TO SEE THIS:

II. Political language

Another point I wish to address is the one about the language used in politics.

I came across George Orwell’s ‘Politics and the English Language.’ and I believe it will be of great help and relieve to those who feel that very few serious, honest and practical ideas/plans are being transmitted. Please, do not mistake me. I have a high respect to all those individuals who devote themselves entirely to make our societies a better place.

This being said, I personally feel that oftentimes politics is a competitive game without structured rules and clear goals. Is it because it is too difficult to settle clear, simple and honourable rules or because it is not supposed to be played by everyone? Or because it is simply too difficult to explain? I lack knowledge, but I am very certain that individuals like me who are out of the game, should play when rules are properly explained or understood.

SO WHAT NEXT?

Any advice as to how to be able to learn from contentious heated and sometimes biased political debates?

How could I start seeing/understanding politics as a worthy, respectable, essential and honourable activity to be engaged in when I feel that there is not a willingness to hear others out? When emotions are oftentimes so strong that instead of having conversations one finds itself in savage scenarios?