Ambushing Our Elected Representatives
Why is it we elect people to change things in Washington or state capitals and then nothing happens? It’s because they’re ambushed by foundation groups determined to force legislators to fall in line with “the system” or to marginalize those who won’t play by “the rules.” Idaho State Representative Vito Barbieri paints a picture of what legislators are up against.
Open Doors (www.opendoorsusa.org) issued its report on religious freedom around the world this week. 80% of the areas where Christians are under serious duress occurs in Muslim countries, but you’d never know that from the media’s prattle about the religion of peace. Rev. Paul Estabrooks from Open Doors returns to the program.
John’s boralogue emphasizes the key trend we’re going to witness during 2012: the increasing tension between political ideology and reality as the gulf between them stretches to a breaking point. John concludes the program with a Middle East intelligence update.
Fallacy of the Week – Question-begging Epithet»
Question-begging Epithet _ using biased or emotional language to coerce people into accepting a position rather than using logic or evidence.
Example:
“Only a total moron would agree with your position! You and all your supporters are completely wacko!“
Strong language doesn’t equal sound argument. In fact, this fallacy is usually committed when the opponent can’t find anything worthwhile to to say in rebuttal. A knee-jerk response is a very good indicator that a civil and logical discussion is nearing the end.
Many people don’t like having their worldview challenged. You’ll know the sensitive areas of a person’s beliefs when you gently prod them a bit. It’s like a doctor probing a patient for the source of their discomfort. Often, it takes facing pain and self-inspection to overcome illness. Vulnerability and exposure frightens some people and keeps them in bondage. Truth is an instrument of healing; for both diagnosis and for remedy.
If you find yourself stomping off and calling the other guy a jerk, it’s time to inspect your worldview. Never be afraid to examine your weaknesses. Build up your ability to stand by asking yourself the hard questions like “Is what I believe about this true?”. Be willing to really listen to people and see things from their position. Research opposing viewpoints to yours and graciously admit when you’re wrong or when you need more information.
In the worldview wars, we don’t have to hate each other to fight a good fight.
We have a saying around here: “Your failure to be informed doesn’t make me a wacko!”
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