The problem is that so many societies are focused on short term issues and problems. It’s why the environment is stuffed, why the wars America got involved in were such a disaster, why the credit crisis happened and why the first programs to always get the shaft involve the future.

After all, with only 3 years to make a good impression in the White House — if your focus is on re-election — focusing on the long-term, big picture issues ain’t gonna get your party back in power.

Are those perceptions accurate? Are the grass roots voters concerned about education and technology – do they believe that education and technology are important for the future of their society?

Or are voters too focussed on the economy and foreign policy?