Bread and Circuses
America is currently undertaking massive construction projects to house our advancing material culture. That new culture of luxury and dependence upon benevolent autocratic power is designed to replace our once outstanding political and spiritual culture, just as it did in ancient, democratic Rome.
The Roman Colosseum was built by the Flavian dynasty of Roman kings as "a gift to the Roman people," in exchange for their giving up 700 years of democratic power. American politicians are building similar grand monuments to make America feel better about abandoning rule of law and our history of citizen participation in governing processes.
Multi-billion dollar projects are under way in infrastructure, professional sports, corporate offices, hotels and gambling, bullet train transportation, nuclear energy, chip manufacturing, performing arts and, of course, America's own Great Wall of China at the U.S./Mexico border.
And what, pray tell, is being done to rebuild democracy and effectively promote the personal empowerment we regularly tell ourselves we love and want today? Nothing of real substance other than flattering words and embarrassing hyperbole.
Where are the adult continuing education programs teaching about the history of democracy in this country and about the ongoing pattern of usurpation of citizen rights and responsibilities by ambitious politicians of both political parties? Nowhere. Where are the strong and vibrant social studies programs in public and private schools? Nowhere.
KIMBALL SHINKOSKEY
Woods Cross
Book Police
When I was in the first grade many, many years ago, I—along with my peers—learned to read with the help of the Dick and Jane series. I suppose, had this reading program continued until now, there would be some self-appointed censors clutching their pearls and demanding that these books be removed because of the word "Dick."
TED OTTINGER
Taylorsville
"Rockets' Red Glare," June 27 online
Editor's note: Readers react to the announcement that drone shows would replace Salt Lake City's traditional July fireworks.
My only hope is that there's no advertising in the drone shows.
WLDCORDEIRO
Via Instagram
This is great! Fireworks are so terrifying and disorienting for wildlife and our pets.
UTAHANIMALRIGHTS
Via Instagram
The drones are gonna be taking everyone's facial recognition photos too while they're at it.
BONESOFBABY.DOLLS
Via Instagram
So lame.
AUSTONCALL
Via Instagram
Good. It's been 25 years since I've needed to see another typical firework show.
JAXMANJAX
Via Instagram
This is fantastic! Thank you.
BRIANN A.LEATHAM
Via Instagram
I love this!
VERBALLYUNRESTRAINED
Via Instagram
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