Why don't the Myanmar monks just "work within the system?"

[sakkatta]

And just try to elect someone who has no intention of EVER representing them and has consistently worked against their beliefs... like Hillary Clinton is to the USA left?

[Mythsaje]

1. Welcome to DU

Though I can't say this is the best thought to post right out of the gate.

[reggie the dog]

2. are you

are you suggesting that it is ok to think outside of the box??????????
treason I say treaason.... :+

[moodforaday]

3. Don't be surprised

to learn that they have "worked within the system" up to just about last week. They didn't rock the boat and the murderous junta left them mostly alone, even gave them money. I remember reading a piece in a (print) magazine, and the BBC seems to concur:

The authorities have shown no qualms about beating and arresting opposition activists in recent weeks.

But Burma's monks occupy a revered place in a profoundly devout society, and so, while some of their protests have been answered with tear gas and arrests, the authorities have generally allowed the monks to march without major interference - merely watched and filmed by plain-clothed police.
(...)
For years the military has assiduously cultivated ties with the senior clergy, often spending huge sums on building or renovating temples.

Those ties may yet pay off.

http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/asia-pacific/7004625.stm

What riled the monks was that the government goons all of a sudden turned on them, which they didn't normally do before. I am not saying all monks have so far been immune from the oppression, but as a class of people that seems to have been the case.

[uppityperson]

4. I would welcome you, but not sure if you'll be around long.

I notice you don't like Ms.Clinton and have no hesitation in bashing her. I don't like her but am spending my time and energies learning about the others and supporting them. Guess that is what makes me a democrat.

Edited to add, in regards to your OP, they have. They did.