Yes, when it comes to being the leader of a nation the size and weight (economic, political, etc.) of the United States of America, experience is a factor. However, "experience" does not automatically convey wisdom.

I do not think Barack Obama is a saint. I think he's a politician, and as such, there is much of the pragmatist about him. I question the practical application of some of his stated policies, yet to a certain extent, what others have labeled as "flip-flopping" seems to me to often be the result of carefully considered re-evaluation -- something that has been far too lacking in our current Mission From God Administration, and this gives me hope that Obama is capable of learning wisdom.

But I have to admit that, for me, it's not just a matter of specific policies or promises. The biggest factor in my decision to vote for Obama (as opposed to merely against the Republican candidate) is that I am so damned tired of a culture of blame, of fear, of finger-pointing and demonization of The Other.

This is why I am voting for Barack Obama: