I just wanted to say thanks, mjm, for posting your thoughts. I have been reading many independent and mainstream sources dealing not only with the present "war", but with federal politics in general. Although Americans have always held a sense not to trust their government, it had never occurred to me how little faith I should ultimately put into it. Seemingly, it is much like a stage play in that the public only sees what the government wants to show. For every one questionable action that is brought to light, many more stay undiscovered in the shadows.
This "war" has heightened the public sense of fear, but I seriously doubt that it has made them aware of all the major flaws that have brought the federal government to this point. If history is correct, and superpowers only last as well as the actions they take, we may be coming to a fast close concerning economic influence and world leadership.
Enjoy the day,
bentpole