I used to think reason ruled the day. If I could just impart objective, statistic-laden, reasoned arguments, then…THEN my position would be adequately supported and my opposition would have no choice but to acquiesce to the merits.
I used to think common sense was the calvary. If I could just share some relevant examples based on experience, truth, and commonality then…THEN my position would make all the sense in the world and the individual frothing at the mouth would have no choice, but to swallow his pride.
I used to think evidence trumped emotion. If we could just offer each other a few minutes of respectful, thoughtful, and honest conversation then…THEN we might have a fighting chance of appreciating our differences, instead of using our differences to hurt each other. I used to think people meant what they said. I used to think people meant well. I used to think people meant to treat others the way they wanted to be treated. I used to think adults had all the answers. I used to think everyone’s parents were heroes. I used to think mankind just needed to take the time and effort to clear up the misunderstanding (whatever that misunderstanding may be) then…THEN we could fight a fair fight, if one were still to be had. And if our righteous fight came to an impasse, we’d be able to agree to disagree, without being disagreeable. And should it be best for us to go our separate ways it wouldn’t be in a huff shrouded in mystery, but with clarity in a reasonable manner. There’s that word again. Reason.
Now I know.
Now I know there is no requirement for reason in today’s discourse.
Now I know there is no cry for common sense.
Now I know there is no expectation of evidence.
Nonetheless, reason is a better way; for the death of reason gives rise to feelings as the new and improved arbitrator of what is considered right and wrong in our discourse on sundry topics. Feelings ought not be ignored, but it’s important to understand they are subjective and it’s better that they not be used as the sole basis for life decisions.
Another thought. “Discourse” is hardly a word even used today. It’s almost as if the concept is now an anachronism. Instead of robust and challenging public square discourse, there is a race to dismiss the merits of a position argumentum ad hominem. Instead of taking five minutes (and possibly more) to research a topic to logically address an opposing position, somewhere along the line justified prejudices, discrimination, and stereotypes have become the new acceptable judge and jury. There is little expectation for the mass to think for themselves, let alone work things out.
Is it too much to ask to treat each other with respect, no matter how infuriating a position may be? To pursue an earnest effort to have a conversation? To pursue consistency? To be provocative without hypocrisy? To require…reason? My primary goal is to provide some desperately needed perspective in the struggling art of discourse. What is your goal?
With that, let’s dive in and discourse, shall we?
“Come, let us reason…” –Isaiah 1:18
Cynthia Shaffer
Political Editor & Commentator
ReelUrbanNews.com
Cynthia resides in Northern California.
