Ever wondered what politics is really like? Wondered how politicians talk to one another in a open debate about something like a three strikes policy being introduced in a country (Australia) where it isn't in place? Here is a great example, taken right out of the Australian Senate — a back and forth between Attorney General George Brandis (thats long for big cheese) and Senator Scott Ludlam of the Australian Greens Party.
"I know industry leaders have very strong views on these things, but I'm asking you about groups like Choice or ACANN or others that might represent consumer interests or the public interest," he [Scott] said. "There is a very strong public interest in the protection of private property and that includes the protection of intellectual property." Brandis responded evasively. "So you're not going to answer the question?" Ludlam said rhetorically.
There is a lot more on this debate and it is disgraceful how clearly the AG is simply spouting what he is told to say.
(Score: 2, Insightful) by Anonymous Coward on Friday May 30 2014, @06:49AM
Part of the answer is Right-wing_authoritarianism. [wikipedia.org]
Just yesterday I read the first 100 pages of Altemeyer's The authoritarians and would recommend it. It's available for download for no cost. I found it easy and even funny to read, in addition to being quite insightful.