Madam, - Working in marketing, I am often struck by the speed with which American lifestyles, sensibilities and social mores transfer across the Atlantic and into Irish consumers' lives. This, in my view, is often a positive thing as Americans have much to offer us culturally, emotionally and (dare I say it?) economically.
For good and bad, the great empire of our time will also directly influence how politics develop in our country.
Sarah Palin's appearance as the Republican vice presidential candidate in the US elections is an interesting case in point. On first glance, she is both surprising and an amusing object of satire, easily written off as a silly, if slightly scary, by-product of the American political circus.
But what if the strategic thinking behind her nomination becomes the dominant formula of American political success? What if Palin embodies a new strain of political candidacy, which could also transfer with ease to an Irish political landscape? Whether or not the Republicans win on November 4th, Palin's presence may tell us something of the direction of all politics in the 21st century. This putative American leader deserves some serious consideration.
When one cuts through the spin, it seems that Palin delivers three characteristics intended to win votes:
1. Determined dogma: Palin offers the security of a watertight political and social world view, informed in part by religious belief. Such a world-view rarely requires substantiation, deep understanding or personal insight, as it is a fait accompli.
2. Vaulting ambition: The Palin nomination is decidedly rooted in McCain's ambition to win, not in his belief in her excellence - or, indeed, her adequacy. Palin's acceptance of that nomination "without blinking", is a bald, even astounding, statement of her own personal ambition.
3. Emotional power: Palin's iconic meaning (as a young woman with a photogenic face, possessed of a fascinating personal narrative) is presumed to trump any dearth of talent, curiosity or relevant political experience she may display.
Here, then, is an emerging formula for political success. None of these elements is new in itself, but the three together make a powerful combination. Sarah Palin is a milestone in American politics and a harbinger of the kind of politicians Ireland may have in store.
Of course this is for us, voters and politicians alike, to determine. Another principle I observe from my work in marketing is that we, as "consumers", of democracy, get the governance we deserve. - Yours, etc.,
BRIAN McINTYRE, Balglass Road, Howth, Co Dublin.