MANY OF us, myself included, frequently rail on corrupt politicians. We've all heard pundits and investigative reporters recount backroom deals, scandalous behavior, nepotistic practices and cutthroat desperate measures executed by ruthless, blood-sucking government officials. From the chicanery in the United Nations now being uncovered to the infamous Watergate scandal, we've all been accustomed to associating politicians with words such as "deceptive," "untrustworthy" and "lying," whether or not the mold fits in all circumstances. While it's easy to sit and point the finger of blame at a bunch of immoral, debauched adults who can't seem to play well with others, we need to take a step back and examine our own conduct as members of another self-governing institution.
Many of us know of circumstances right here at the University that amount to wrongdoing or at the least the appearance of impropriety. We've seen practices of nepotism and appointment of friends to important positions in student government splashed on the front page of this paper. Outgoing Student Council President Noah Sullivan handpicked his cabinet consisting of: his roommate Adam Sanders for chief technology administrator, Peter Farrell, son of Tom Farrell, vice rector of the Board of Visitors, for director of University relations and Daisy Lundy, former Council president who had Sullivan as her own chief-of-staff.
It sounds like the intensity of Washington politics, but in a much more immature manner. In the long run, we'll find most of our experiences here at the University memorable, and we will look back upon our college days with fondness. Nevertheless, really, we must put our achievements in perspective. Though the University may seem like the center of our universe right now, most of our accomplishments here will be inconsequential compared to what we do beyond college. We may think we're all big shot "politicos" now, but when we get out into the "real world," we're all in for a rude awakening.
Although these underhanded schemes at the University are not conducted in the Washingtonian smoke-filled rooms of the good 'ole boys club, they are no less above reproach. It is valuable to take a step back and examine whether this political wrangling is adding to or subtracting from our foundation of self-governance. Perhaps a structure of increased openness and inclusion on all levels would encourage more participation. If people see Council as nothing more than a small elite body, they will be turned off from becoming involved. Similarly, if other clubs are run without genuine input from all members, individuals will not desire to stay active. Laying a foundation now for a future concerned and committed citizenry is essential to the continued survival of our government.
I'm not suggesting that we should become a society of 1980s Green party radicals in Germany, rejecting leadership roles (and dressing like hippies), but we should scrutinize our current political atmosphere existent in a significant percentage of our University life.
I'm also not advocating an abolition of self-interest at our University and in our society. Looking out for oneself is a natural tendency, and in some instances, is mutually beneficial. For example, if a businessman is interested in making money, he or she will invent a product that is in someone's best interest to purchase. However, taken to an extreme, self-centeredness can be a detriment to all. A team-oriented approach, especially in college organizations, is critical to the success and vitality of the organization. Additionally, engaging in collaborative solutions contributes to the development of a marketable skill.
We may lambaste today's politicians for the poor example of bitter traditions they are enshrining for future generations, but what legacy are we going to leave to our children? As the old adage goes, "First take the plank out of your eye, and then you will see clearly to remove the speck from your brother's eye."
If we promote the same sort of acidic system on a much smaller and trivial level, I can only imagine what tomorrow's leaders will be like. We have a responsibility to act in a mature, respectful and civilized manner as students of this University and members of our community. This is not meant to be a smarmy lecture, but a gentle reminder of the abuses of a system that is meant to be inclusive and transparent. For the sake of future generations and common decency, let's all strive to operate with humility, selflessness and a team-oriented agenda in all endeavors, both here and beyond.
Whitney Blake is a Cavalier Daily associate editor. She can be reached at wblake@cavalierdaily.com.
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