Accountability, as well as personal responsibility, had been chucked out the window of American government. It also had been abdicated by the American voter. As long as most Americans could have their McDonald's drive-throughs, listen to their iPods, and watch American Idol, they didn't seem to care how negligently the nation's national security apparatus was being run. Bread and circuses. The Romans had it right. As long as people had food and fun, they didn't care much about the erosion of their nation.
In the modern American landscape, the concepts of accountability and personal responsibility have been largely disregarded both by government officials and the electorate. Many citizens focus on their daily conveniences and entertainment, such as fast food, music, and television, while neglecting to engage with the critical issues affecting national security. This apathy indicates a troubling trend where comfort and distraction take precedence over civic duty.
Historically, this scenario mirrors the Roman approach of providing citizens with "bread and circuses" to maintain control. As long as the populace is satisfied with immediate pleasures, they often ignore the underlying challenges and deterioration of their society. This critique highlights the need for a more engaged and responsible citizenry that prioritizes the welfare and security of the nation over mere entertainment.
