Hasslington Begins

Thank you for taking the time to view this blog-site, which is principally and foremost concerned with issues related to American (and, to a lesser extent, European) politics and culture, and how they affect both domestic and international affairs. I both hope and assume that this site's areas of most intense concern will alter and evolve over time. This is to suggest that both my thoughts and those of my readership will help to shape its niche' in the blog-o-sphere in an increasingly full and focused manner, which will occur over a gradual period of time, accompanied by instances of trial and error on my part...and perhaps on your part, as well.

In the United States, as well as in much of the rest of the world, the present issue of political preoccupation is in large part the 2008 American presidential election cycle, begun in an earnest manner in late 2006 (though one could very well suggest that it began after the 2004 presidential election results were finalized). It seems fitting, therefore, that many of the posts in the forthcoming months of 2008 will focus on this particular area of interest. You will have ample opportunities to discover my often-evolving political tendencies (I am a Democrat, though hardly of the far-left variety) in relation to this and related issues, so I will say no more on the subject at this moment apart from the fact that I tend to refer to myself as what Americans would call "a social liberal" (though that certainly has its exceptions), whereas in other areas of policy I am a bit more unpredictable.

Before I sign off for now, let me make one thing very clear: I welcome open-minded debate, so your comments and concerns regarding the issues this blog covers are very welcome indeed. If you agree with me, let me know, and WHY; if you disagree with me, let me know, and WHY; if you both agree and disagree with some aspects of what I have to say, well, that's when the real fun of uncovering cultural and political complexities comes into play...so, again, let me know, and WHY. However, please be sure to remain respectful of the viewpoints of others, whether or not they dovetail with your own, and please keep your tone civil (though the occasional well-placed sarcastic comment might also prove to be helpful).

Thanks again for stopping by this site. Soon it will be time to start the discussion....