The First American Error.

I imagine the indigenous peoples of North America must be kicking themselves. They must be ruefully watching the big white guy with hair that looks like a wig that came off the shelf of a dime store (and maybe actually did) and saying:

‘Why didn’t we think of that? Build a wall down the eastern seaboard and deny entry to all Christians. Simple. Damn, damn, damn…’

*  *  *

In less serious vein, I have to say that I dislike the latest Battle Hymn of the Republicans:

America first.

It isn’t that I don’t understand its catchy and populist quality, it’s just that I would prefer something more general and ethically flexible, like:

Whoever needs the help most gets the most help.

(I hope I’m not plagiarising anybody.)