Farm Accident Digest

January 5th, 2005

Magnet Rot Shows US Rot

Only recently did it come to light over here that trend jumping Americans have taken to putting politically themed magnets on their automobiles.

Moisture can build up behind the magnet and do damage, especially if there are scratches or contaminants in the area
[...]
Normally, any marks left behind can be rubbed off, he said, but permanent damage is possible, requiring paint repair. Some reports say the problem may be worse on dark-colored cars or with prolonged sunshine exposure.

In a truly just society, such sloppy and damaging individual expression would not take place. A true society would let its causes be celebrated through government proclimations and well funded, well thought out public arts programmes. It would also have long ago limited the use of individual automobiles and placed such proper messages of cause support in clearly seen areas of the public transportation.

Also, buyers should not assume the money will benefit troops, fight cancer or help other causes. Profits simply may be lining the pockets of individuals or businesses.

This last speaks quite clearly to the folly of individual charity as I mentioned early. Only the state can be properly trusted to manage wealth correctly. Mostly, though, I fear the irony of placing a magnet on one's automobile to support occupiers in an illegal war for oil will be lost on most Americans. Actually, I fear most that it isn't.

-- Polly Toynbee