The situation we face is not new. Our grandfathers had the same problem, but it was concealed by the structure of media. Now, with the access to information we enjoy through the 'net, we can summon the dreams and fears of America's most honored thinkers and leaders.
Where there were unionists and feminists imprisoned and killed for their beliefs, now we all seem to be trying to stay out of harm's way, hoping to ride out the insanity of the Patriot Act and "legal torture" and the abolition of the Magna Carta.
But a certain far-seeing thinker's words were recorded and add credibility to the terror created by the recent Supreme Court decision giving free speech rights to corporations.
Here's the quote, make of it what you will.

"I see in the near future a crisis approaching that unnerves me
and causes me to tremble for the safety of my country;
corporations have been enthroned,
an era of corruption in High Places will follow,
and the Money Power of the Country will endeavor
to prolong its reign
by working upon the prejudices of the People,
until the wealth is aggregated in a few hands,
and the Republic is destroyed.
--Abraham Lincoln