“Beware of the irrational, however seductive. Shun the ‘transcendent’ and all who invite you to subordinate or annihilate yourself. Distrust compassion; prefer dignity for yourself and others. Don’t be afraid to be thought arrogant or selfish.  Picture all experts as if they were mammals. Never be a spectator of unfairness or stupidity. Seek out argument and disputation for their own sake; the grave will supply plenty of time for silence. Suspect your own motives, and all excuses. Do not live for others any more than you would expect them to live for you”. (Christopher Hitchens,from Letters to A Young Contrarian, 2001)

This is good advice for this Presidential election season, although the “Never be a spectator of…stupidity” part may be challenging. 

Reviews:        New York Times    Observer

In closing, don’t forget about the mammal advice!