A Love of America Turned Ugly [Photo Essay]

[GaryC 7]

Gee, maybe people could address and refute the particular points in Morris' commentary rather than just insult Steven.

Sheesh.

I'll give it a shot. He seems to be saying that nationalism (pride in country) is the reason why they hate us. Since when did pride of our country become a evil thing? I am very proud of America warts and all. It may not be perfect but it is (for me) the best. I will not apologize for my pride and I will not accept the idea that this is why they hate us.

[one...two...tree 2,762]

I really wish there could be more balanced postings about politics on VJ. It only proves how divided our country is though. Does it always have to be so extreme left vs extreme right all the time? And making each other's candidates or who someone likes look like fools constantly? How about they all look like fools most of the time. It's getting ridiculous. I know that's off topic from this posting but it has to do with it. Let's all pick the most extreme and divisive info we can to fight each other with to make to other side or people who don't share our political views look stupid or "blinded".

Why do we feel the need to belittle ppl's opinions all the time. Why can't ppl debate without belittling? I guess that's impossible in politics. I get tired of getting involved in political threads because it's always the same story and the same ppl bickering. I can't wait until the freaking elections are over! Long way to go though.

the polarization does very little aside from getting the *other* side arguing back and the *same* side doing high fives. It's been few and far between that people walk away from these 'discussions' thinking, "that was an interesting point, I got something out of that discussion".

You're both right and I apologize for posting something that is very divisive. However, in the context of other posts lately, I thought it was in the same line. I would like to think that a White House photographer would offer an interesting perspective into the kind of patriotism that he sees at the WH.

[no name 1]

I really wish there could be more balanced postings about politics on VJ. It only proves how divided our country is though. Does it always have to be so extreme left vs extreme right all the time? And making each other's candidates or who someone likes look like fools constantly? How about they all look like fools most of the time. It's getting ridiculous. I know that's off topic from this posting but it has to do with it. Let's all pick the most extreme and divisive info we can to fight each other with to make to other side or people who don't share our political views look stupid or "blinded".

Why do we feel the need to belittle ppl's opinions all the time. Why can't ppl debate without belittling? I guess that's impossible in politics. I get tired of getting involved in political threads because it's always the same story and the same ppl bickering. I can't wait until the freaking elections are over! Long way to go though.

the polarization does very little aside from getting the *other* side arguing back and the *same* side doing high fives. It's been few and far between that people walk away from these 'discussions' thinking, "that was an interesting point, I got something out of that discussion".

You're both right and I apologize for posting something that is very divisive. However, in the context of other posts lately, I thought it was in the same line. I would like to think that a White House photographer would offer an interesting perspective into the kind of patriotism that he sees at the WH.

Steven, do not apologize for this - it is completely acceptable to post. It was interesting, considering he has an inside view.

The terrorist post is a completely different animal. One that was objected too & then those were openly mocked for not having a sense of humor. It only clarifies the fact that those in glass houses will, in fact, throw stones...

Edited October 11, 2007 by devilette

[LaL 418]

I really wish there could be more balanced postings about politics on VJ. It only proves how divided our country is though. Does it always have to be so extreme left vs extreme right all the time? And making each other's candidates or who someone likes look like fools constantly? How about they all look like fools most of the time. It's getting ridiculous. I know that's off topic from this posting but it has to do with it. Let's all pick the most extreme and divisive info we can to fight each other with to make to other side or people who don't share our political views look stupid or "blinded".

Why do we feel the need to belittle ppl's opinions all the time. Why can't ppl debate without belittling? I guess that's impossible in politics. I get tired of getting involved in political threads because it's always the same story and the same ppl bickering. I can't wait until the freaking elections are over! Long way to go though.

the polarization does very little aside from getting the *other* side arguing back and the *same* side doing high fives. It's been few and far between that people walk away from these 'discussions' thinking, "that was an interesting point, I got something out of that discussion".

You're both right and I apologize for posting something that is very divisive. However, in the context of other posts lately, I thought it was in the same line. I would like to think that a White House photographer would offer an interesting perspective into the kind of patriotism that he sees at the WH.

Perhaps you could be part of the solution to the divisiveness rather than adding to it

[no name 1]

I really wish there could be more balanced postings about politics on VJ. It only proves how divided our country is though. Does it always have to be so extreme left vs extreme right all the time? And making each other's candidates or who someone likes look like fools constantly? How about they all look like fools most of the time. It's getting ridiculous. I know that's off topic from this posting but it has to do with it. Let's all pick the most extreme and divisive info we can to fight each other with to make to other side or people who don't share our political views look stupid or "blinded".

Why do we feel the need to belittle ppl's opinions all the time. Why can't ppl debate without belittling? I guess that's impossible in politics. I get tired of getting involved in political threads because it's always the same story and the same ppl bickering. I can't wait until the freaking elections are over! Long way to go though.

the polarization does very little aside from getting the *other* side arguing back and the *same* side doing high fives. It's been few and far between that people walk away from these 'discussions' thinking, "that was an interesting point, I got something out of that discussion".

You're both right and I apologize for posting something that is very divisive. However, in the context of other posts lately, I thought it was in the same line. I would like to think that a White House photographer would offer an interesting perspective into the kind of patriotism that he sees at the WH.

Perhaps you could be part of the solution to the divisiveness rather than adding to it

Then actions need to be taken against the other side. One can only be BEAT DOWN so many posts.

[one...two...tree 2,762]

Gee, maybe people could address and refute the particular points in Morris' commentary rather than just insult Steven.

Sheesh.

I'll give it a shot. He seems to be saying that nationalism (pride in country) is the reason why they hate us. Since when did pride of our country become a evil thing? I am very proud of America warts and all. It may not be perfect but it is (for me) the best. I will not apologize for my pride and I will not accept the idea that this is why they hate us.

He said, 'Blinded by nationalism.' Have you not heard the expression, 'Blinded by love?' Would calling someone as being blinded by love, in your opinion be an attack on love? Hardly.

Edited October 11, 2007 by Mister Fancypants

[Peikko 1,575]

For what it's worth, and to be honest, I am not sure that it is worth going down this road but, I don't think the it is the idea national pride in itself is that he is against, rather some notion of national pride that supersedes all rational thought. I don't think there are too many people that fit this description though, and I don't think either Bush or his cronies are actually little Hitlers, or anywhere near close. That's what I meant when this kind of thing does more to cement people into their corners than allow for some honest self examination.

[no name 1]

Gee, maybe people could address and refute the particular points in Morris' commentary rather than just insult Steven.

Sheesh.

I'll give it a shot. He seems to be saying that nationalism (pride in country) is the reason why they hate us. Since when did pride of our country become a evil thing? I am very proud of America warts and all. It may not be perfect but it is (for me) the best. I will not apologize for my pride and I will not accept the idea that this is why they hate us.

Why do you think 'they' hate us?

[GaryC 7]

Gee, maybe people could address and refute the particular points in Morris' commentary rather than just insult Steven.

Sheesh.

I'll give it a shot. He seems to be saying that nationalism (pride in country) is the reason why they hate us. Since when did pride of our country become a evil thing? I am very proud of America warts and all. It may not be perfect but it is (for me) the best. I will not apologize for my pride and I will not accept the idea that this is why they hate us.

He said, 'Blinding by nationalism.' Have you not heard the expression, 'Blinded by love?' Would calling someone as being blinded by love, in your opinion be an attack on love? Hardly.

May I also point out that 9/11 happened before all this "blind nationalism" took place? The nationalism was a reaction and not the cause.

[one...two...tree 2,762]

from the interview...

Berman: When I look at your pictures I see order and control, yet it's unclear who is in power or what is in power. The man himself seems almost inconsequential to the trappings and rituals of the office. Yet those around him, the listeners seem hypnotized -- almost robotic and rendered speechless. Does Bush the man have this effect, or is it something else? And how personally did you feel watching people respond in such a way?

Morris: The time period after September 11th, and with the build up to the invasion of Iraq, the country was in very strong Nationalistic mood. And their leader was George W. Bush. This is what I tried to convey in my images, was this cult of personality of the President. The Secret Service agents was more of a play on men in black in odd places. The whole Homeland Security feel to it.

Berman: Describe your physical limitations when you are traveling with the President and how these limitations influence your choice of subject matter an the construction of your pictures?

Morris: I travel in what is called the pool. There are roughly four to five photographers, three wires and two magazines. Coverage of the President is limited to what they want us to see. The challenge for me in this is to look away from the President and document the environment in this imaginary bubble that we are forced to work in.

Berman: Do you ever see any cracks in the veneer, any breaks in the bubble, or aren't you interested in those moments? And have you seen a change in the aesthetic that corresponds to Bush's political standing?

Morris: I have noticed in the last year that, yes, the pendulum has finally started to swing in the opposite direction. But I feel this is temporary. America is a very proud nation that, at times, can easily be pushed to the extreme right. Our love of our flag and Nation can blind us sometimes to the rest of the world.

Berman: And finally, as you have photographed many other politicians and presidential contenders, how does the Bush bubble differ from the Hillary Clinton or Barack Obama or Rudy Giuliani bubble, or is there any palpable difference?

Morris: The only difference are the crowds. Republicans are drastically different than Democrats. You can see it in their fashion. I can pretty easily tell what type of crowd I am in. As for the three candidates that you mention, all three are very controlling of the media with the way they want to be portrayed. The most difficult candidates for access are Hillary Clinton and Rudy Giuliani, both, ironically, the front-runners.

http://alternet.org/story/63710/

[no name 1]

For what it's worth, and to be honest, I am not sure that it is worth going down this road but, I don't think the it is the idea national pride in itself is that he is against, rather some notion of national pride that supersedes all rational thought. I don't think there are too many people that fit this description though, and I don't think either Bush or his cronies are actually little Hitlers, or anywhere near close. That's what I meant when this kind of thing does more to cement people into their corners than allow for some honest self examination.

He is OTT, sure. But is he partially correct? You betcha.

9/11 was a wake-up call for this (often rabid) nationalism, and it definitely is now a US vs. the world mentality. That makes me very sad.

Do people hate us for all that we have? You bet. And I'd bet most Americans never truly thought about that until after 9/11.

[LaL 418]

I really wish there could be more balanced postings about politics on VJ. It only proves how divided our country is though. Does it always have to be so extreme left vs extreme right all the time? And making each other's candidates or who someone likes look like fools constantly? How about they all look like fools most of the time. It's getting ridiculous. I know that's off topic from this posting but it has to do with it. Let's all pick the most extreme and divisive info we can to fight each other with to make to other side or people who don't share our political views look stupid or "blinded".

Why do we feel the need to belittle ppl's opinions all the time. Why can't ppl debate without belittling? I guess that's impossible in politics. I get tired of getting involved in political threads because it's always the same story and the same ppl bickering. I can't wait until the freaking elections are over! Long way to go though.

the polarization does very little aside from getting the *other* side arguing back and the *same* side doing high fives. It's been few and far between that people walk away from these 'discussions' thinking, "that was an interesting point, I got something out of that discussion".

You're both right and I apologize for posting something that is very divisive. However, in the context of other posts lately, I thought it was in the same line. I would like to think that a White House photographer would offer an interesting perspective into the kind of patriotism that he sees at the WH.

Perhaps you could be part of the solution to the divisiveness rather than adding to it

Then actions need to be taken against the other side. One can only be BEAT DOWN so many posts.

I am not here to referee between the partisan sides. I am merely asking for everyone to chill a bit.

[no name 1]

I really wish there could be more balanced postings about politics on VJ. It only proves how divided our country is though. Does it always have to be so extreme left vs extreme right all the time? And making each other's candidates or who someone likes look like fools constantly? How about they all look like fools most of the time. It's getting ridiculous. I know that's off topic from this posting but it has to do with it. Let's all pick the most extreme and divisive info we can to fight each other with to make to other side or people who don't share our political views look stupid or "blinded".

Why do we feel the need to belittle ppl's opinions all the time. Why can't ppl debate without belittling? I guess that's impossible in politics. I get tired of getting involved in political threads because it's always the same story and the same ppl bickering. I can't wait until the freaking elections are over! Long way to go though.

the polarization does very little aside from getting the *other* side arguing back and the *same* side doing high fives. It's been few and far between that people walk away from these 'discussions' thinking, "that was an interesting point, I got something out of that discussion".

You're both right and I apologize for posting something that is very divisive. However, in the context of other posts lately, I thought it was in the same line. I would like to think that a White House photographer would offer an interesting perspective into the kind of patriotism that he sees at the WH.

Perhaps you could be part of the solution to the divisiveness rather than adding to it

Then actions need to be taken against the other side. One can only be BEAT DOWN so many posts.

I am not here to referee between the partisan sides. I am merely asking for everyone to chill a bit.

We've had one post from a liberal (excuse me if you are not, Steven) and tons from the *other* side. I very much take offense at singling out this ONE POST.

edit: EIGHT button-pushing/anti-Hillary posts from one member since October 8.

Edited October 11, 2007 by devilette

[LaL 418]

I really wish there could be more balanced postings about politics on VJ. It only proves how divided our country is though. Does it always have to be so extreme left vs extreme right all the time? And making each other's candidates or who someone likes look like fools constantly? How about they all look like fools most of the time. It's getting ridiculous. I know that's off topic from this posting but it has to do with it. Let's all pick the most extreme and divisive info we can to fight each other with to make to other side or people who don't share our political views look stupid or "blinded".

Why do we feel the need to belittle ppl's opinions all the time. Why can't ppl debate without belittling? I guess that's impossible in politics. I get tired of getting involved in political threads because it's always the same story and the same ppl bickering. I can't wait until the freaking elections are over! Long way to go though.

the polarization does very little aside from getting the *other* side arguing back and the *same* side doing high fives. It's been few and far between that people walk away from these 'discussions' thinking, "that was an interesting point, I got something out of that discussion".

You're both right and I apologize for posting something that is very divisive. However, in the context of other posts lately, I thought it was in the same line. I would like to think that a White House photographer would offer an interesting perspective into the kind of patriotism that he sees at the WH.

Perhaps you could be part of the solution to the divisiveness rather than adding to it

Then actions need to be taken against the other side. One can only be BEAT DOWN so many posts.

I am not here to referee between the partisan sides. I am merely asking for everyone to chill a bit.

We've had one post from a liberal (excuse me if you are not, Steven) and tons from the *other* side. I very much take offense at singling out this ONE POST.

Dev come on - you suggested actions should be taken on the *other* side. I responded and asked for everyone to chill. I am not singling you out. Like I said - I am not refereeing sides.

[tweety 1]

ok, I read the message after I watched the "photo essay". Am I the only one that couldn't connect the points when only watching the slide show? This guy seems to be a bit paranoid but to each his/her own....