Whenever some particular bit of news leads me to despair over the wreckage after six years of conservative rule, I try to take the long view. In general, I think this country–and human history–is always trying to extend a hand towards its better angels. Attitudes and mores change in ways that almost always favor acceptance and inclusiveness. As little as ten years ago, a serious debate over gay marriage wouldn’t have even seemed remotely likely. Five years ago, global warming was the sole concern of dedicated environmentalists. Things change, and usually for the better. That’s why I was encouraged when I read that a recent study shows that young people seem to lean left. Not exactly surprising, but I’m willing to bet that this generation will remain slightly left of center, as opposed to previous generations that drifted to the right as they grew older (I’m looking at you, boomers). And that’s a good thing, because we’re going to need their help to clean things up.
Just discovered your blog. Seems interesting, but I’m feeling kind of zombified today.
I share your excitement about young people’s more liberal views (although I wonder why they didn’t ask about social inequality).
However, if we take the long view, inclusiveness does not increase over time, but rather ebbs and wains over time and place. We have seen many such non-linear functions over time regarding homosexuality, gender, even environmentalism.