Artists like to talk about what they do with people who've read their books, or seen their films.

Artists like to talk about what they do with people who've read their books, or seen their films.

In trying to explain our political paralysis, analysts cite President Obama's tactical missteps, the obstinacy of congressional Republicans, rising partisanship in Washington, and the Senate filibuster, which has devolved into a super-majority threshold for important legislation. These are large factors to be sure, but that list neglects what may be the biggest culprit of all: the childishness, ignorance, and growing incoherence of the public at large.

Not all negativity is bad. In politics, it's a necessary clarifying tool.