Former President of the Democratic Party, Obama: "The other side plays a politics that is harsh, angry, exclusive, black-and-white, and divisive - that's their home ground. While our home ground is to unite people together."
Obama's statement accurately summarizes two mainstream political models in today's world (especially in the American political arena). His views precisely reflect the differences between the two major parties in the United States and the resulting major divisions. He describes the Republican Party's politics as exclusive and divisive, while the Democratic Party's politics are diverse, inclusive, and unifying.
Its manifestations and consequences:
"The other side" of exclusive politics: It usually uses people's anxiety and sense of insecurity, consolidating its base by setting up an opposition between "us" and "them." This narrative simplifies complex issues into a black-and-white struggle, which can effectively mobilize voters in the short term but also exacerbates social divisions.
Obama's united politics: This is a vision based on "hope" and "common interests," emphasizing seeking consensus across differences. Although this approach helps heal social wounds, it often lacks the impact of divisive politics' slogans and is harder to convert into immediate action in a highly polarized public opinion environment.
This statement also points out the current dilemma of the Democratic Party in the United States: although the concept of unity has higher moral standing, it often struggles to counter the simple and direct emotional incitement of opponents in specific elections. Black-and-white politics makes people feel good, while united politics requires everyone to "shoulder" the responsibility.
With the U.S. midterm elections approaching, Obama's remarks have a certain degree of incitement.
Original: toutiao.com/article/1857224535292928/
Statement: This article represents the personal views of the author.