 Wow, this is funny Coberst, cos if I happen to out and out disagree with you, then it may seem I have picked up arms against ya...
So, not the case. Though I do disagree with you.
I believe that argument can be, and often is a precursor to war. And warring is as much an individual's prerogative, mindset, and action as a more corporate force such as nations and their military.
But I actually believe that argument can disarm people. Getting to hear another side to an issue than your own, even in an argument, can bring peace. Not necessarily agreement, but a meeting of the heart that is even more peaceful to know than a meeting of the mind. When someone, your equal, shares their viewpoint, even in a "verbal combat"...you are entering a profound relationship. That of getting to know someone. And if one posts to share what they believe, I think they come more truly disarmed and naked. No armour...
And the fact is, that if you listen, really listen to another, your own viewpoint may well change! It has happened to me countless times. Heck! I use to be a Republican and conservative!!! LOL
So I believe that forums offer a place for folk to be vulnerable and teachable. To avoid "war" ...sure there can be a spirit of war and anger, and an inordinate competition that only looks at besting someone with tactics of intimidation...a battle. But without a forum to discuss as individuals, there can be no real peace, no real friendships.
So whereas war can result from forum discussion, so can peace.
Maybe you can kinda look at it like a neutral thing, this playground of thought, this school of ideas, these mates who play rough and yet, when all is said and done, perhaps you can find a true concern for one another when situations call for sharing more than simply political debate.
OhDear
OhDear |