Re: I've got all the answers
by
Fitzpatrick
05/16/2008, 1:52 PM
I understand that some people don't like to debate; however, I contend that views that are not discussed and defended are often ill-formed, even incoherent. Certainly a decision to align one's views with a political party should be subjected to some scrutiny.
Even better than oral debate is a written argument. Good writing sharpens one's views, or reveals them for the empty constructs they are. Arguing is just a formalized way of thinking things through, and I contend that everyone is indeed obligated to think through their political views: they owe it to themselves, and to anyone they interact with politically, whether in discussions, by voting, or any other way.
To repeat my rhetorical question: what's the point of holding views if you don't tell anyone about them? More specifically, what's the point of getting upset that people don't like your views, if you don't share them and can't defend them?