There seem to be two subjects which are almost guaranteed to lead to nastiness - politics and religion. Is it impossible for people to listen calmly
to views they disagree with and maybe even discover a seed of doubt in their own beliefs?
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fazer1k · 56-60, M
And yet people still keep bringing those subjects up - often in extreme or mocking ways that are almost certain to be inflammatory. You have to wonder, then, if those who raise these topics do so because they enjoy the heated debates or 'nastiness' that follows.
alan20 · M
@fazer1k In the school playground there were always those who'd shout "A fight, a fight" and would go running to watch. I'm sure that's behind a lot of it. I bring it up because every so often I do have the occasional niggling doubt and wonder if another mind might throw some light on it.
fazer1k · 56-60, M
@alan20 I'm sure there are people who will gladly debate without nastiness, but I doubt it could ever work quite as you wish in an open forum where everyone, including those who enjoy the antagonistic element of these debates, can join in. Private messaging a couple of people you trust, from each camp, may work better for someone with genuine questions and a desire to fully appreciate both sides.