Keith Burgess-Jackson, J.D., Ph.D.

To the Editor:

Re “High-Five Nation,” by David Brooks (column, Sept. 15):

Thanks to Mr. Brooks for his column. When the president addresses Congress and is engulfed by excessive applause and shouting, a moment of humble reflection might be more appropriate. Consider the track record of our political leaders over the last 40 years or so, and the challenges America faces.

Vietnam, Chile, Iraq and Afghanistan. Support for murderous military regimes in Central America. One presidential impeachment and one resignation. The financial hijacking of American culture. Countless examples of pandering, lying and slanderous political campaigns and rampant corporate corruption with no reforms in sight.

Greed remains unchecked on Wall Street, and we continue flirting with financial ruin. An alarming percentage of our children don’t finish school.

Climate-change issues loom, tens of millions can’t afford health insurance, and we waste precious time appeasing a fringe that apparently thinks catcalls, insults and half-truths are the keys to effective governance.

What has happened to the United States of America? Why do we stumble so?

Perhaps a little more humility would be good for everyone.

Steve Wacker
Seattle, Sept. 15, 2009

Note from KBJ: I blame the Hippies.