Donkey vs. Elephant

[Mythsaje]

I was sitting in my car at break this evening and pondering the animal mascots used by both the major political parties, and what they represent, both mythologically AND in reality.

The Democratic mascot is the donkey, a much maligned creature in some respects, but one I have a great deal of respect for. The donkey is considerably smarter than a horse, being intelligent enough to realize when it has to much weight to bear and refusing to move if this is the case. They have a reputation for stubbornness, but it isn't simple obstinancy for the sake of obstinancy. Donkeys have a pretty good sense of self, and tend to be intolerant of abuse and harsh treatment.

I happen to think the Donkey is a great symbolic mascot for the Democratic party for these reasons alone.

Now take the elephant. The largest living land animal. A generally peaceful herbivore known for occasionally losing its cool and rampaging over anything that might stand in its way. Legend has it that an elephant has a long memory, and can harbor a grudge for what it perceives as mistreatment for a very long time.

In reality, an elephant DOES seem to be a very intelligent creature, one of the only other mammals that seems to grasp the concept of death in much the same manner that we do. They have been witnessed in what seems very much like mourning for one of their number that has fallen. They are very group oriented and cooperative.

Now, it's fairly apparent that the Republicans also have a long memory. Maybe longer than the Democrats. They do not easily forgive a slight, and are willing to go to great lengths to repay any such debt. But, on the other hand, Republicans don't have a good sense of community. Certainly not in comparison to their animal mascot. They look out for themselves first and foremost, and their fellows second. They certainly don't reveal all that much compassion even for their own kind. They prefer to exist in a dog-eat-dog world and whoever can't hack it is just out of luck.

So, all in all, I think the donkey wins hands-down in this contest of comparison. The donkey is a far more fitting mascot for the Democratic Party than the elephant is for the Republicans.

And one last thing about elephants? They produce an awful lot of crap. Just like Republicans.

[brettdale]

1. Haha

Very good indeed.

[Tunkamerica]

2. The republican shit dingos? n/t

[133724]

3. Thank God Elephants don't fly.....

[VenusRising]

4. And might I just add...

:rofl:

[Laurier]

5. I have to admit that I've never understood either "mascot".

There must be some rational explanation for them, but I have no idea what it is. I am sure others here can explain it.

ETA: http://www.factmonster.com/ipka/A0881985.html

http://www.democrats.org/a/2005/06/history_of_the.php

Thanks for prompting me to look it up :)