Bread and Circuses

bread and circuses
pl.n.
Offerings, such as benefits or entertainments, intended to placate discontent or distract attention from a policy or situation.
[Translation of Latin pnem et circnss, a phrase coined by the Roman poet Juvenal : pnem, accusative singular of pnis, bread + et, and + circnss, circus games.]

See Also: Republican Party, Walmart, and Television

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In an article on this topic I came upon a Benjamin Franklin story in which as an infirm 81-year old he was carried out on a "sedan" from Independence Hall in Philadelphia on September 17, 1787 after he and the other 38 delegates had signed the Constitution:

"What kind of government do we have, Mr. Franklin?"
"A republic," the elderly statesman, writer and scientist replied, ". . .if you can keep it. . ."

To read the original article visit http://www.thomasjamesmartin.com/breadcircus.htm


I care about this election as I have never cared before, bearing in mind that last time I stayed up all night to see the results. I feel like such a changed woman. But sadly I fear that America has not changed with me. I will be unspeakably horrified if McCain wins, though mostly I will be disappointed in my fellow Americans. I can't believe that this whole election may come down to abortion and homosexual marriage... Until I remember why I voted for Bush the first time. I just pray that I'm not the only person who has woken up and started caring about more than bread and circuses.