In rhetorical theory we have a description for how people can believe that an objectively crumbling economy is actually on the upswing. It has to do with something called a “terministic screen.” It’s not too complicated but the way that it links up to identity can get kind of technical.
As an alternative hypothesis, we might want to explore the possibility that the bulk of Obama worshiping Democrats are just straightforward morons:
Democrats in June 2009 are evenly divided as to whether the economy is getting better or worse. By a 58% to 20% margin, Republicans say the economy is getting worse. Among unaffiliateds, 54% say the economy is getting worse while 22% say it is getting better. While there are big differences about where the economy is headed, there is little difference about the state of the economy today. Nine percent (9%) of Republicans rate the economy as good or excellent while 10% of Democrats say the same. Those not affiliated with either major party are a bit less upbeat.
“Is the economy getting better or worse?” That’s not a question beyond the realm of human reason. It’s not like literature, where people might entitled to their own opinions. There’s an answer.
Though in fairness that super creepy Obama idol that’s been touring the country does inspire reverence and adoration:
So if he says that the stimulus is working – which, unbelievably, he does – then the stimulus is working.
References:
* Unreal. With Unemployment at 9.5% Obama Tells Crowd: Stimulus Is Working (Video) [Gateway Pundit]
* Partisan Economics: Democrats, GOP See Different Economy [Rasmussen]
* Giant Obama Statue Tours US, Spreading Goodwill, Creepiness [Ace]
Previously:
* Paul Krugman, Economic Guru, 2002: "Greenspan Needs To Create A Housing Bubble"
* CA Dems: Instead Of Cutting Costs, We’re Going To Increase Taxes And Destroy CA’s Oil Industry
* New Poll: Only 26% Consider Health Reform A Success In Massachusetts
