In recent months, we have heard a lot of hyperbole concerning the deep divisions in American society.  At its most extreme, this division is described as embodying an impending civil war.  I used to laugh at the mere suggestion.  Now I am concerned. Such suggestions are considered by many to be outrageous, because the American Civil War (1861-65) was a bloodbath (as many as 800,000 died) that tore the nation into two opposing sides.  As one can readily see, civil war is an extreme event – but is it unreasonable to ask if we are facing another such catastrophe? While all of us should hope not, it would be foolish to underestimate the potential for violent disruption of our society.  Like the old Confederate veterans who spent the remainder of their lives harboring bitterness and resentment, many of the losers in the most recent national election desperately refuse to yield to the new president-elect. Allow me to lose a few friends here....(Read Full Post)