Maybe you saw it on television, but it bears repeating nonetheless. ABC's poll of 1,300 Iraqis in over 20 cities and towns revealed some surprisingly good news. You can read a report on the survey here, but one passage in particular bears quoting:
Perhaps the most remarkable finding is a positive one: Iraqis are hopeful and optimistic despite the profound difficulties they face in their daily lives. The surveys and the anecdotal interviews are filled with example of people who told us "We feel less safe," "We have less money," "We have less electricity," etc.--and then closed by saying, "We believe our lives are getting better."
Optimists and pessimists alike seem to hold out hope for the elections. Nationwide, more than three-quarters of our respondents said (a) they plan to vote and (b) they believe in democracy. Jan. 30 is seen as a watershed--even by those who say they intend to boycott the vote. One is certainly left with the impression that people will be less likely to tolerate problems after the election.
And that's what democracy is all about, right?
Comments