SWA 2

Kathleen Parker’s article “Seeking Balance in an Either-Or World” dives into the political picture in our country today. She discusses how in a political arena seemingly dominated by far-left Liberals and far-right Conservatives, a growing number of Americans are choosing to align themselves as Independents, associating with neither of the two parties. These Americans, now a majority at thirty-nine percent, choose the more central path without leaning too far to either side. Parker notes how nothing can really be accomplished with either party’s radicals in power because the spirit of compromise is completely eliminated from all debates. She believes that in the future, a more moderate approach will be necessary to continue to pass legislature in our government.

The primary example used by Parker to assert her claims is abortion. This is a sticky issue to choose, particularly because the media often portrays it as you’re either on one side or the other; there is no middle road on the subject. It is also an interesting issue to us as the article’s support, because a central, middle compromise has yet to truly develop on this topic. Parker summarizes her abortion point right where she started it; “adrift” between both sides. The author should have chosen a recent issue where a central viewpoint has developed and resulted in a successful compromise between both sides. It is easy to understand why Parker chose abortion, but leaves the audience waiting for a concluding viewpoint after she finishes discussing it.

I too have personally witnessed this extremist society when it comes to politics. Coming from a very liberal community just north of Washington DC, a very liberal town in and of itself, the minority of conservatives are very stubborn and will not compromise on issues, whether on the local, state, or national level. This makes law making difficult, and many walk away unhappy and discontent. This is exactly what Parker discusses in her article; how a middle road is becoming more necessary in today’s society and culture. Though she uses an interesting example to defend it, Parker’s claims are very valid and it is easy to see why she believes a change is needed.