Hello Chris,

I'm sorry about the post on this subject.  It was supposed to go to another
group that is discussing ways of interacting on sensitive, controversial
subjects; ways that would most likely draw out differing views even from
those who might be sensitive - perhaps overly sensitive - to hard, tough
exchanges.  I am opposed to that way of dealing with controversial issues
because I think that approach tends to bias the discussion conclusions
toward those who are sufficiently hard-nosed to ignore hard language.  I
have seen too many students, people, workers who are intimidated by their
colleagues, bosses in such a way that their good ideas never even get on the
board.  And I have been guilty myself.  Some 30 years ago, when I was
reviewing a subordinate's work, I noticed his hands were shaking as he tried
to light a cig.  I asked if he was ill.  He said: "Ray, you scare me."  Not
my intention at all, just trying to understand what he was doing.  How can
one think they will get clear responses in that kind of environment?
Another time, I was in a heated telephone conversation with someone whom I
respected but disagreed with violently on a particular issue. Too violently,
he had a terminal heart attack.  Not much opportunity for productive
exchange with him thereafter.

Now, I don't mean that one must kowtow to any bully on the block.  In those
situations then vigorous response is not only acceptable to me but required.
I'm talking about serious search for truth and understanding in some kind of
collegial atmosphere as I view these professional list groups to be.

In the situations you describe, I think that violence in speech and action
is major contributor to prison populations, etc.  I think that the ills of
society perpetrated by irresponsible "authorities" is reprehensible and
should be addresses with all the vigour that one can muster.

It is the moral responsibility for each of us to consider carefully the
situation in which we are engaged and pick the appropriate exchange mode.

All in my humble opinion, of course.

I'm sorry for the misdirected post, but perhaps it might appropriately be
addressed to any group of folks engaged in tendentious discussion??

Respectfully,

Ray




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