vagabond -
I think the question comes down to how best effect change in the government. Many people feel that no matter what is done by civil means, the politicians and their cronies simply destroy promises for the sake of 'their' good.
America is kind of in a catch-22. There are too many lazy, uncaring people electing lazy, uncaring politicians because they like to promise a lot, and deliver very little, as the people feel no responsibility for themselves. After all, when Bush wanted to go after Social Security reform, we had a situation to where there was much public outrage - people simply didn't want him hurting their retirement, despite the fact that SS is obviously bankrupt.
Better yet, look at California. Great example of people unwilling to make hard choices, and are getting destroyed for it....Yet still are wanting to take the easy way out.
Back from the dead, I'm afraid.