Civil Discourse

by: Les Carpenter
Rational Nation USA
 Birthplace of Independent Conservatism

As an independent conservative I want discourse between the left and the right as much as the next guy or gal. By this I mean true and comprehensive discourse. You know, the kind of meaningful discussions that actually leads to something getting done. The kind of "something" that actually results in a stronger and more unified United America.

I dream on.

The stark reality is America is facing the choice between a vibrant and sound country based on the founding principals of this nation or one that shall lead us even further down the philosophical journey towards evermore dependence on federal government dictates. The choice which direction we take, at least at this point in history rests with us, the electorate.

As I see it we the people have a great opportunity, as well as a great responsibility, to determine the future course of our nation. Not only for our generation, but in setting the stage for positive discourse and a productive direction for future generations.

I, as well as many many others of the independent conservative mindset find the current state of political discourse lacking, even distasteful. The terminology most often bantered about is the need for "civil discourse." Usually this is heard from the left, and for reasons that are frankly, at least in this writers opinion, disingenuous. I say this because the reason lies in the "modern" left's desire to control political and philosophical debate based on political correct terminology as defined by none other than the modern left.

As I stated earlier, I recognize the desirability, as well as need for honest, open, and sometimes heated and passionate debate between the differing views of the conservative and liberal elements of our society. Is it not time we all recognize that for us to continue to be a vibrant, strong, and free society that we constructively work out our differences in a way that results in a stronger nation. After all, is that not precisely what our founding fathers did in 1787 when drafting the Constitution of these United States of America?

When we talk about discourse we all need to focus on what it means to facilitate "respectful discourse". All discourse, as well as honest disagreement, is good as long as it is based on mutual respect. Only when discourse disintegrates into name calling and disrespect towards the opposing view is it "bad"

In a nutshell, as long as discourse or debate is respectful, and directed towards the honest resolution of common problems, it is good, even when the rhetoric sometimes becomes heated. Throughout our nation's history there has been significant differences of opinion, beginning with the the framing of our Constitution. In 1787 a group of opinionated and passionate men, sometimes having deep divisions, were able to craft one of the worlds most remarkable and enduring documents. It is to their everlasting credit and legacy they were able to do so.

And so today, as liberals, center, and conservatives debate the issues, let us not attempt to shut down dissenting views through the insidious use of PC approved rhetoric. Rather let us remain at all times respectful, civil, and judge only the politics or philosophy and not the person(s).


Via: Memeorandum

Comments

  1. AnonymousSun Jan 16, 10:40:00 PM EST

    Have you ever noticed that it is always the weaker who asks for dialogue or compromise?

    The lioness never needs to say to her prey, "Hey, can we at least sit down and talk this over?"

    Whenever I hear the left ask for 'civil' anything, I laugh. Yes, I'm a jerk. It's true. But I am a jerk who is right, and I do not ever need to ask for compromise or long talks aver chai latte at some trendy coffee shop full of the stink of patchouli and starving artists who need a good shower.

    I honestly believe it is almost too late for any kind of reconciliation or moderation. The damage has been done, the die has been cast, and the gears of destiny are now in motion. There are only so many times the left can lie before their lies become their identity. We are well past that time.

    Just a passing observation.

    Donald in Bethel, CT

    ReplyDelete
  2. Les CarpenterSun Jan 16, 11:03:00 PM EST

    Don - Has the right ever "lied." Perception can occasionally be misleading.

    I acknowledge, and partially agree4 with your opening point.

    Given this I still refer to our founding and the cantankerous mood that permeated 1787 and the Constitutional Convention.

    Perhaps our founding fathers were greater men than we have in our midst today.

    Nonetheless it is worth the efort to aspire to their greatness and clarity of purpose.

    ReplyDelete
  3. AnonymousSun Jan 16, 11:22:00 PM EST

    Les,

    You comments to me reveal the truth that you are indeed a better person than I am in matters political.

    (And I do mean that as a high compliment!)

    Donald in Bethel,CT

    ReplyDelete

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