If EVERYBODY in the world thought the way CarolC thinks, it would, in my opinion, be a perfect world. The trouble is, also in my opinion, a minority of the people in the world think as she does.

Kendall: of course we (the U.S.) has done stupid things. That's why there are two columns on your pads. I don't believe, however, that the government, regardless of who is at the helm (Democratic or Republican or Green Party, or whatever) is ever going to establish U. S. policy by POPULAR vote! That's where I think you, CarolC and the majority of the posters here will continue to be frustrated.

I can see it now: some future president, before he decides to recognize and assist a government in some country somewhere in the world sends ballots to the whole population and asks for a vote as whether or not we should do it. Even if this unlikely event were to occur, one could never be certain that they would be on the winning side. What does one do then? Carp, carp, carp. Second guess, second guess, second guess! :>)

DougR