Why culture change requires a deep practice of civil conversation about values.
While this article is an important contribution to the politics in America, it is relevant to the polarization politics occurring everywhere and also to the very heart of how science (including climate change, evolution, biotech and AI science) must approach the question of knowledge in the century of complexity and uncertainty.
The article begins below.
For some time, I’ve called upon moderate and liberal Americans to gather the fortitude and determination to fight for our nation’s survival where it matters most.
Not by attending rallies, or going door-to-door, or energizing the base, or hanging around like-minded people, or posting livid screeds, or even sending cash to your favorite candidate. Those are all fine things. But they miss the most important fact — and opportunity — about this crucial election cycle.
Today’s critical issue has nothing to do with the outdated so-called “left-right” political axis.
With the very survival of Constitutional government and the American Experiment at stake, we cannot afford to leave this to simpleminded partisanship.
Our opportunity — and obligation — is to rip open Karl Rove’s “big tent conservative coalition.” To pry it apart — one person at a time — by approaching millions of decent fellow citizens who were duped into supporting a criminal gang. One person at a time.
What? Am I really suggesting we should reach out to… conservatives?
….We don’t just need victory for one electoral side, kicking out a set of bums. We need a victory for the very concept of decency and openness and accountability. And, for that to happen there must be a seismic change on the right….
…If we reach out and steal “decent conservatives” from Rove’s Big Tent, we will not only weaken the monstrous, undead thing called neoconservatism, but we may even (to our own surprise) gain new friends.
Neighbors we can argue and negotiate with sensibly, like adults.
Indeed, possibly fellow citizens who (though conservative) may have a good idea or two.
So, you ask — “HOW do I help break up the Rove big-tent conservative coalition?”
This essay is long and thorough, making it useful as a reference for any of you militant-moderates looking for “ostrich ammo.” Do NOT send your favorite “decent conservative” here saying “read this!” All they’ll see is another online tirade. This chore must be done in person. One on one.
Said one experienced ostrich converter: “You need to make firm contact with the bit that’s in the sand rather than what’s poking up above it. Engage them on their terms. Don’t harangue.”
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