Identity Politics

Ellsworth Toohey: Mr Roark, we're alone here. Why don't you tell me what you think of me in any words you wish.
Howard Roark: But I don't think of you.
--The Fountainhead

Interesting to ponder how many people would be capable of voting for (or against) a candidate if they did not know their gender, skin color, ethnic background, wealth levels, and other demographic characteristics. Voters like to profile.

During the debates surrounding ratification of the Constitution, people on both sides wrote anonymously and often underwrote their work using pseudonyms. Anonymity helped debates focus on ideas rather than on people.

Wouldn't it be refreshing if ideas and character once again trumped persona in politics?