Inaugeration Day Assignment

I’d like to speak briefly on Obama’s oath into presidency. It attracted great attention for a lot of focus on what appeared to be one notable mistake – the trip up during his oath giving. Expectedly, right wing politicians jumped on Obama’s tail given this opportunity. On Wednesday, the following day after the inauguration, Obama was made to say the oath once more, without falter. It was claimed that he was not technically president because the oath was not been said correctly. Personally I don’t see great importance in something like this, as it was clearly (as far as I see) a slight mistake. He began a line early. Also, I believe that it was not entirely his fault. Chief Justice Roberts seemed to pause improperly during the first line. So despite the mistake, the oath was as sincere as an American president can achieve. Those who made the complaint were trying to expose flaws the new president, even if they were insignificant. I also noticed that Obama jokingly paused incorrectly during the second line of the oath, probably to attempt to redeem himself after having screwed up previously. I think this was a lighthearted attempt to do just that, although, probably not a good idea. It might, as it may have, given the same people incentive to then say that Obama does not take his presidency seriously. He is certainly charismatic though.

The disproportionate attention that this attracted expresses the stubbornness of politicians who are strong to one way of thinking or another.

As a side note, one of the most interesting things that crossed my mind during the festivities of the inauguration, was the point of view of a very old French philosopher and civil rights spokesperson - who is known by the paper name of Voltaire.

"Mankind will never be free until the last king is strangled with the entrails of the last priest." -Voltaire.

I won't dwell on this, but it completely undercuts the importance of a presidency, its hype, and all that is televised about it. Having the mind that I do, I don't believe that there is a clear correct way to view this statement. It depends on perspective. Reasons can be given that Voltaire is speaking truth as well as just the opposite.

(I realize this response lacks reactions to points made during his actual speech. Possibly more to come..)