I don't think there are any more nasty people around, in fact I see less prejudice and bigotry as time passes.

But I am aware that communications and media has transformed causes and opinion making in a big big way. So nasty people getting the oxygen of publicity? More oxygen and more publicity. Oh and in this soundbite age, quicker delivery from mouth to unsuspecting public.

The influence of malign intent is deeper but I remain convinced that people are seeing through it more at the same time. Over here in The UK, it will be once again impossible for a party to form a majority government at this year's election because people are less inclined to be taken in by empty promises and the art of slagging off the other lot is increasingly back firing.

Interesting times...