We started off the day listening to Ross Baker, a Congressional scholar. His complex insight on the most complex form of United States government could only slightly touch on the more broad picture of the subject. I appreciated his honest analysis of the partisanship that hinders the original intention of the U.S. government by the Framers. Unfortunately, his presentation was too complex of a subject to present in a mere hour time frame.
Michael Genovese interestly categorized the American presidency as a different beast. His timeline of evolution of presidential grandeur and power were supported by various instances that have expanded the dominance of the president. The word phrase Genovese used, “constitution dictatorship” frighteningly is the correct classification of this evolved presidency. The most recent and evident example of this was through current president, George W. Bush. In times of crises, 9/11 and Hurricane Katrina, he expoited the Constitution to gain more power in which still lingers today.
Pakistan ambassador, Hussain Haqqani, appropriately deserved his standing ovation. Its unimaginable that the American government has ignored such a simple and thoughful approach to Islamic extremism. An analysis of Islamic history, culture and evolution is the most important aspect that could reach peace within the Middle East. In underdeveloped Islamic counrties, his analogy as Islamic extremists being like 3-year-old kids using the biting strategy to fight their opposition is very true. It is impossible for the world to truly be on the same page but peace can be achieved by a respect and appreciation of another’s diversity.
Our site visit to Capitol Hill was interesting for its short lived experience. The art and architecture is beautiful but I really wished that we could view more of what we were allowed. The aesthetics are interesting but the whole soul of the Capitol is the representation of the people. Actually viewing the congressional chambers would have totally won the Capitol over as the best visit but it really lacked the substance for me.
