Whatever strongly held political belief you may hold, there is a very high probability that I disagree with you, no matter where on the political continuum your opinions fall. That doesn't make me stupid, evil, or misinformed.
If I think it's a good idea that the country have a pointed debate on whether torturing detainees is acceptable, that doesn't make me a terrorist sympathizer or a tool of Harry Reid or Nancy Pelosi.
If I think it's a good idea that the country have a pointed debate on the desirability and shape of a massive government-mandated overhaul of an industry comprising a major fraction of our economy, that doesn't make me a Fox News ball-licker.
I seldom post on political hot-button items, and on the rare occasion when I do so, I take significant care to avoid insulting or demonizing those with whom I disagree. Some people believe that anyone who disagrees with their particular platform must necessarily be a moron, or unpatriotic, or unAmerican. Such an automatic belief about someone who disagree with you is intolerant and ill-informed.
All strongly held opinions should be questioned, especially your own. All "authority" should be questioned. All people with power over others should be questioned thoroughly and at length. Anyone with power over others should automatically be distrusted. Someone who has the power to enact things you may approve also has the power to enact things you may abhor. Any law you may wish to see passed has the potential to be misused in a way which would shock you.
My dissent is patriotic, and I will continue to dissent whether the Republicrats or Demolicans are in charge.
War Is Peace; Freedom Is Slavery; Ignorance Is Strength.
#1 by DINO on September 3rd, 2009
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HERE HERE!!! Thank you! I wish more Americans would wake up, smell the coffee, and realize – diversity means people will have different opinions, they can discuss those ideas, and still mutually co-exist, each living their own lives. Democracy is not a reality show where you try to hoodwink or bully others into living their lives your way. It is about different ideas getting along and flourishing side by side. Not just the “approved” ideas that are deemed “appropriate”, but ALL ideas. Bring them to light, debate, discuss, and then live in peace knowing your neighbor that much better, even though you may disagree with him!