Post in I am a citizen not a consumer

Jul 31 14:12 UTC

James Gilmour wrote:
> ...there is another expectation of government, namely that it will
> pursue a coherent set of policies and actions across the whole of
> the political sphere. ...

I've just answered you here:

  http://groups.dowire.org/r/topic/2ma78lpfH1ZqdOZv2k7R6j

  (see 2nd post)

In that example (park planning), decision making by the neighbours has
actually *enhanced* the overall coherence of policy and action.  Here
the neighbours are taking on the role of active, responsible
*citizens*.

A centrally planned approach to the same ends (useful parks) would be
less coherent and less feasible.  Here the neighbours would be taking
on the role of passive *consumers* of park services.  (This is the
status quo.)

John Miller wrote:
> I guess the fundamental question of this list server is, how can the
> tools of electronic communication be used to extend what it takes to
> be a citizen (not just a consumer)?

One answer (as I've explained) is to provide ourselves with the tools
to make political decisions.  Government is not going to provide those
tools to us, as a consumer service.  If we want them, we must develop
them and employ them ourselves.  That's a good thing.  (Some of us
have already made beginnings in this direction.)

Is there a reason why that cannot work?  Any reason at all?  Or is
there another option that can stand up to rational argument?