I actually think Klein is hitting on something bigger and I am actually currently writing about it and will have posted either here or somewhere else soon. The Internet has given a huge voice to those who have surrounded themselves around a cause. At the same time it has turned those around these causes very nasty and very radicalized and not prone to allowing others into their domain. (I use the McLuhan idea of retribalism, ok enough, more on that in the future).

Cindy Sheehan became a very big example of this to me and right now it seems to be hitting its height in the “liberal” side of the Internet in the same way it took in the conservative talk radio/attack book side of the media in the 90’s. Basically these organizations have formed a “you are with us or against us” attitude.

Both sides right now are playing to their bases, it’s primary season, but the left base seems really intent on attacking their own. I understand they felt snubbed after 2000 & 2004 but its definitely overcompensation time now.

Anyone who even hints at having an agenda slightly different then these groups is attacked and ripped to shreds. There are examples, such as immigration on the other side, but its a loose confederation as opposed to the highly Internet organized left.

The reality is governing demands moderation & compromise. These groups increasingly take any compromise as a sign of weakness and turning on the base. Those two things run counter to one another and should make for a messy future. Which to be honest as an outside observer, I kind of like.