Quote:
Originally Posted by momoese
Exactly why a third party is needed. Then it would be us and them and them! Til then we have our Banana party!
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Alternatively, there is the realization that every group is a collection of individuals -- each with their own varied opinions.
The upside of political parties is the ability of candidates to pool resources and public appearances. An analogy of this is the Cannes Film Festival.
The downside of political parties is when they become machines of wealth and power for the national committee and key players. We've been on this road for quite awhile in the U.S. One of the first real abuses in this area was simplified voting: pull the handle or push the button and vote only for the party candidates and "platform".
When you reject the concept of "party platform", you remove the instruments of divisiveness and every candidate must now stand on their own merits instead of hiding behind the party "brand".