I saw a quote this morning that seems apropos to your post, rporter. Plato I believe. Something like: The consequence of good men having no interest in politics is that they are governed by lesser men.

Where do you suppose these "reasonable people" would come from? And how would they manage to win elective office?

Steve
Give us the wisdom to teach our children to love,
to respect and be kind to one another,
so that we may grow with peace in mind.
(Native American prayer)