Jun 8, 2017

The Games We Play

A Belief in Political Participation
By Craig Bridges / filmsforaction.org
The Games We Play

Its general election day and people are checking in at polling stations and notifying one another; “Use you right to vote”, “Your vote matters, don’t waste it!”, “If you deliberately choose not to vote – fuck you!” was a personal favourite.

I agree that a contribution in this UK snap election is important and for many a change in government is seen as a favourable or desired outcome therefore a wasted vote would be precisely that. In my own constituency North Lanarkshire, Scotland, the Tories are venom, scum the antithesis of working-class Scotland. A vote is crucial for seeing May out of number 10 with any other party serving our interests for the better. This may be the case, but what I hate about voting and the political system is the false sense of belief that the answer and cure somewhat lies in a vote and in the political structure. Our 'right' to vote has become more of a 'tactical duty' at the hands of a broken, outdated system.

I think a significant problem is that earth has no concept of what a “society” even is, but we are very aware of what earth is and its importance to us all. Our “social” construct is quite destructive, it shows us our differences and helps divide us. Hence issues with race, religion, sex. However, as humans who share an earth and a nature this may be a better place to start. The message of this is to look beyond the institutions and establishment which many believe holds an answer. Society loves a game and we are participating in it. If we wish to participate in making things better, creating real change and finding a sustainable cure, we should maybe try a playing different game?

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