Flip-flopping and its effect on Hillary vs Obama

The big issue in the race for the Democratic nomination is this - how important is consistency and commitment?

Social psychologists think it is critical. Studies show that once people commit themselves to a point of view or a course of action they will follow it wherever it leads, almost regardless of the consequences. And we have great respect for consistency - that's why "flip-flopping" is such a deadly accusation.

If this view is right, it is good news for Hillary Clinton. On her blog, Arianna Huffington writes entertainingly of the love that dare not speak its name - the love that those committed to Hillary have for Obama. But the demands for consistency leave them sticking to Hillary.

But if the social psychologists are wrong, then Hillary needs to be afraid, very afraid. Over on Slate, William Saletan has managed to overcome his own support for the Iraq War. Now he lacerates Senator Clinton over Iraq. He says that her determination to remain consistent, has just led her to a convoluted and arrogant formula.

I don't know about Hillary versus Obama (although the polls are quite striking, arent they?). But I'd be reluctant to bet too heavily against consistency and commitment

Comments

[Wilbur E. Bryant]

Rep. Ron Paul of Texas is the only national figure who I KNOW has genuinely correct understanding of nonsenses bandied about by George Will, Hillary Clinton and Obama and others; media give them credibility by uncontested coverage of their ignorance.

You serve well to bring bring Ron Paul into thorough confrontation with each and every candidate.