4th Exclusive David Simon Q&A (page 6)
Q: Have you seen any movement toward positive change by anyone or any institution as a result of the issues explored in
the show? Will we ever see a "paper bag" for the drug war in our lifetime? Do you think the show's innate
hopelessness will actually discourage reform? [Kyle H, Glen, Brian, Ann in Philly, Craig]A: I've seen no movement toward positive change, at least on the political level. Have you? I do not expect a television serial to result in political change. I do not regard our current political culture as capable of meaningful reform. I do not actually regard it as subject to democratic imperative. I regard it as an oligarchy in which some certain minority of Americans with money are willing to spend that money to preserve their position at the expense of the nation as a whole. Is that innate hopelessness. Okay. I just think I'm being real.
The show might make individuals see the drug war and our demonization of our underclass with a bit more clarity. That would be positive. But political change? Where is the collective will to restore the other America? Where is the profit in that?
Does saying such things aloud discourage reform? Or does calling the game rigged at least allow the players at least the dignity of speaking a little bit of truth to power? Your call, not mine. I only know what feels right to me.
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