The other day I came across a program that I have to pass on to any fellow poly-sci nuts. I’m a sucker for all things political, and found a treasure at our local library. It’s an old British Sitcom called “Yes Minister“. Now this certainly isn’t Black Adder, or Fawlty Towers, but if you like politics, then this is the program for you.
When I watch an episode I find myself both laughing, and cringing at the same time. Laughing because it’s so funny, and cringing because it really nails the subtle problems that arise out of the constant struggle between elected officials and the bureaucracy. I know, doesn’t exactly sound like side-splitting television, but it’s an acquired taste.
I’ve often said if I could only make high school students read two civics texts, the second would be the Constitution, and the first would be P. J. O’Rourke’s classic Parliment of Whores. Well, now if I’m teaching that class, and have access to a television, I’m now going to include Yes Minister as requried content.
