Hmmm. When old crocks, whether here or down the pub, stop talking about politics, democracy stops too. I understand that Putin, for example, has promoted an ethos in Russia that completely discourages anyone from talking politics, to the extent that most people are no longer interested. I don't think that's safe. Same old, mebbe. But while we're free to do it, we should do it. Or perhaps mention of the left makes you rather uncomfortable...?