On a somewhat related topic, I find it troubling that so many Republicans are endorsing or may endorse Obama because they think he has a “better personality”. It is said that Obama is calmer, cooler, and more thoughtful than John McCain and that this is better for the country at this time. The adjective that comes to my mind is “calculating”.

But most disturbing is that personality seems to have triumphed over policy. Being “charmed” into more income distribution and socialist medicine is still more income distribution and socialist medicine. A one trillion dollar spending spree by the charming and intelligent Obama is still one trillion dollars in spending.

This reflects one of the characteristics of modern life. The superficially attractive, charismatic personalities found in all walks of life come out on top, no matter how repugnant their values, beliefs or associations. And we fall for it, again and again.

There is something, maybe a lot, to be said for the anonymity of the internet and of books. And the impartiality of the truth, no matter who says it.