The Voice

[PaulP]

We're a paradox in the area of change.

Deeply progressive, even far-sighted in some areas yet feverishly fearful and conservative in others. SA was one of the first  states in the world to give women the right to vote and our nation one of the first (just behind the Kiwis) globally, yet indigenous folks were not given the right to vote until the late 60s! And the White Australia Policy wasn't given the kibosh (in writing, ie) until almost the mid 70s!

Generally, we are near the front of the pack to embrace technological change but not so much EVs? Such a fascinating little box of contradictions are we.

I suspect we are like most countries, with forces, beliefs, views pulling us in different directions. Most countries, in times of relative stability, do develop a certain character, a certain way of behaving, certain ideas, that give those countries a certain identity. I think it's also worth noting the global trends to which many countries fall prey. We are at a point now where the left is pretty much dead. Most countries are drifting towards the right. And I don't mean the Murdoch idea of left, which is laughable. I mean a legit alternative to the corporate forces and ideologies which have dominated far too long.