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Why Can’t We Disagree Civilly
The name calling doesn’t help and must stop
There was a time when people knew how to disagree. In fact, it was one one the building blocks of a democratic society; a point is made, someone brings a counterpoint, debate ensues, and the winning point gets implemented. Sometimes there are sour grapes but mostly it’s a good, peaceful process.
Not any more. Our political class is a terrible example of mature debate. Watching the Americans campaign is a case in point. It’s the same here in Canada, just on a lighter scale.
Here’s what I’ve observed:
- The other side isn’t your opponent, they’re your enemy. Why would you sit down and consider whatever your foe says? They are to be taken out and dismissed.
Why not consider your opponents position and come up with arguments against them. - The other side is stupid. The view is that stupid people have stupid ideas so why listen to them.
Why not consider that maybe they no what their talking about and just see things differently. - The other side is lying. There’s no grace given to the opposing side. Why not believe that they actually believe what their saying even if it’s false. Prove that what you say is true; don’t vilify them as liars.
- The other side is insincere. That’s…