[x]

Basically, this is where aspiring leaders get their tickets punched. It's more important in forming their views than where they buy their suits or where they eat out. But probably a skilled magazine editor or department head at an Ivy league school may have more influence than the head of the CFR. Such a group is too big and varied to pursue a secret unified and focussed agenda. They do have an effect, as do Davos, the Trilaterals, the Bildebergers, the Bohemian Grove and other elite meeting places, but it's like the effect of a constant trickle of water on a rock. You hear what people are talking about and you start talking the same way. If you go to some local club with people who you have to impress, over time you may start to talk and think like them. There's more at stake here, but it's the same process, and not so much like someone is giving you orders and you are following them.

[The Kitten]

Thank you.

[Economist_MA]

Excellent analysis!

[Verax]

You hear what people are talking about and you start talking the same way.

When you got bumps on this even I was suprised!

[George Frm Br00klyn Park]

"There's more at stake here, but it's the same process, and not so much like someone is giving you orders and you are following them."

X, At least not until it gets down to the "nitty gritty" when folks are told "Our support DEPENDS on how you vote. Ask Ernest Hollings. Peace and love, George.