I think the democracy we both aspire to requires a strong middle class, a reasonably good educational system, and a strong industrial base, all now sliding precipitously. The "abyss" isn't between our conservative and liberal notions of the pursuit of happiness and good government. The current social instability and political paralysis shaping the debate will cause a popular backlash (and breakdown of American society) from the bottom third that the corporate elite refuses to respond to---that's the both of us, Jim. I anticipate changes in non-reality-based belief systems. I believe in the United States.