Divide And Conquer

4 Pages 1049 Words

Divide and Conquer
“We are powerless over ourselves.” I never thought I would agree with Schuman the first time I read these words. But, now I am beginning to understand what he purports to prove. I do, however, wish to make it clear that my knowledge of the study and analysis of politics and governments is limited; therefore my opinions are not fully mature. At this point in my education, and in my life, I am capable of making some educated decisions about where I stand politically, and my views are subject to change as I hope to become more educated. There were very interesting arguments made by both Magstadt and Schuman, both with numerous valid points. Unfortunately to juxtapose the two arguments will lead one no where, other than where they started, with just that, two valid, yet seemingly opposing arguments. More than just opposing arguments, they seem to be different perspectives of the same thing, differing views. Unlike Schuman, Magstadt has accepted the “reality” of our lives as citizens in this democratic system in which we live, and interprets our role in the system in a somewhat optimistic light. He attempts to show us the so called “power” that we do have. Schuman, on the other hand, sees the “reality” in a very different and pessimistic, yet true, light. Almost the opposite ends of the spectrum. Not to say that Schuman is not justified in many of his arguments. In my opinion, they both miss the “middle road,” and as Aristotle would say “In medio stat virtus,” (Virtue stands in the middle road). Who am I to say that either one is wrong, for it may be our own “innocent ignorance” that is to blame for these vastly differing views.

After reading the chapters by both authors, I found myself leaning more towards the arguments of Schuman. Although I do resent some of Shuman’s oversimplified comments, and disagree with some of his supporting opinions, I do testify to agreeing with his compla...