Good article over at Slate today that applies some experimental results from psychology to the Democratic primary process. Basically: we're all sheep and democracy is doomed. It's a pretty interesting read -- there's a scientific basis to explain how little more than statistical noise can be amplified during a group decision making process until an incorrect consensus is reached.

I suppose this sort of decision-making behavior made more sense when it was a question of individuals trusting each other's judgment that, yes, that is a sabre-toothed tiger over there, not just a rock, and we should all run screaming in the other direction. These days things are a bit more problematic. There are so many steps between us and the sources of information that a newsroom running out of coffee can now plausibly affect whether people live or die on the other side of the world.

Which is why I think we need to simplify how we select our public representatives. I think American Idol can provide the blueprint. Every night for half of a TV season candidates are quizzed on policy issues by a panel of experts and celebrity guests. Can't you see it? Madeleine Albright is there in a tube top, hoop earrings and tiny little cowboy hat, and seems like maybe she's a little drunk. Tony Blair's wearing a tight t-shirt and bitching out the Green party candidates for wasting his time. Again and again we are implored to text message. The in-studio crowd cheers when Jimmy Carter is introduced, although they're not really sure who he is -- Clinton's dad, maybe?

After the clip where the candidates visit some kids in the hospital then have some unscripted fun at the drive-thru on the way back, America settles down to decide things for themselves -- as families. In their living rooms. Away from the media echo chamber. Where the important issues can be openly discussed.

Like who has bigger ears, Kucinich or Clay?