Shifting from the action level to the principle level is a classic strategy in conflict resolution. It can be especially helpful when the parties are stuck in disagreement. In the situation the US finds itself in today, that shift can further introduce a consistent set of principles where virtually none exists now. That would be a major step in damage control for the 2007-08 period and enable recovery in the post-Bush era. The whole list of principles would need to address not just the war and foreign policy, but also domestic policies, spending, deficit control, immigration and the like. The vital change is a shift from the program/legislation/implementation level to establish the PRINCIPLE level in order to move out of our current dilemma. Congress can start that conversation tomorrow.
HILL KEMP is a former Texas State Representative and the author of Capitol Offense, a political thriller and literary caricature of George Bush as Governor of Texas. He is author of three other published titles and A Lone Star Special, the sequel to his first novel, is due out in 2007. Kemp lives in the lake and forest country of northwest Louisiana.
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