I had a question from a reporter this morning about post-election withdrawal.  What are all those people who have been “addicted” to websites, TV, and text messaging to follow the election going to do with themselves? Call me an optimist, but I don’t think it’s going to be a problem.  First of all “addicted” is a strong word.  Emotions were definitely high.  But the presumption that emotional engagement and passion leads to a sense of withdrawal and letdown is problematic, if not downright pessimistic. I think it’s pretty clear that the majority of Americans wanted change.  This election is certainly historic for a number of reasons, but it is emblematic to me of what is best of the American culture: the ability to redefine ourselves. Americans has been living in a climate of fear and anxiety in recent years, particularly since 9/11.  The fear response has led to policy choices that have restricted American’s freedoms and tarnished America’s image … [Read more...]