During an otherwise slow news day, the world was shocked when the mainstream media explained a seemingly random current event from the point of view of a prognosticator just proven right. This event, when viewed as an isolated occurrence may not seem to say much about our culture or the important political arguments of the day.

However, when viewed in the “larger context”, one can begin to see that the underlying motives of the people involved [either directly or by simple implication] the potential effect to the country as a whole and our “national dialogue” can be clearly seen.

“This recent event, clearly speaks volumes about our national culture and reinforces what I have been saying all along about our political discourse. Especially the rising tide of hatred and intolerance on the right wing fringe.” said Eric Brooks-Carr, Senior Fellow at the Non-Partisan think tank Teabagger Watchdogs Against Terrorism.

“TWAT has been busy commenting on the news of the day and explaining stories in terms that the average American with a low-sloping forehead can understand,” Brooks-Carr said.  “Many times the public will fail to come to the right conclusion based upon only a clear examination of the evidence and need to be nudged into the proper mindset.  Often they fail to yield to their betters and accept the legitimacy of scholars and intellectual authorities. In fact, I would wager that a plurality of average Americans are incapable of the type of nuanced thinking that is required to hold two opposing views at the same time.”

Brooks-Carr points to a recent TWAT study to prove his claims.  The study examined data collected from various media outlets and its meta-analysis shows that most Americans are misinformed about common easily provable facts.

Contrasted examples from the study include:

  • Sarah Palin’s recent statement that she would be committed 110% to the Iowa Caucuses proves that she is a dunce who failed math … and history … at Fleabag U.

These examples highlight a need, Brooks-Carr says, to guide the public debate in a reasonable and responsible direction, “People left to their own may not see these connections and may come to the wrong conclusions when examining seemingly contradictory statements.”

Joan Walsh, Chairwomen Emeritus of Citizens United for a New Tone agreed.  “The work that TWAT is doing, is very important.  And we at CUNT hope to do our part to inform the American populace as well with ‘the truth’.  Just as surely as Jon Huntsman is the Republicans only hope in 2012 and food stamps are racist, we believe that a new civil tone and an informed electorate will ensure that the presidential election of 2012 will not favor the suicide bombers. And maybe shut up those Tea-Bagging Racists.”

Seriously. Would it kill you to aid & abet a little blog-whoring?