2 ms·
I think you are using the word "polite" to refer to the Christian ethic "don't judge others". As widespread as it is, that ethic should not get to rule discours
by wissler 13y ago
I think you are using the word "polite" to refer to the Christian ethic "don't judge others". As widespread as it is, that ethic should not get to rule discourse without justifying itself. And in practice it is almost always hypocritical: those who violate this dogma are usually castigated, thereby violating the rule they dogmatically insist upon.
I see no reason why we should refrain from morally evaluating what others say, whether that evaluation be positive or negative. In fact, I think it leads to a great deal of evil to not so evaluate.
- pfortuny 13y agoWe should morally evaluate what others say, certainly: as a matter of fact, that is what we do to have an opinion in ethical questions. I do not think I advocated the opposite. What I opposed was attacking the opponent, instead of the ideas.
- wissler 13y agoIt's possible my criticism isn't aimed at you, but at those who get angry and start screaming "be polite" or "be tolerant of others" when their views are morally evaluated. In any case, based on my experience they are at least fellow travelers, cowardly hiding behind "be polite" while suppressing rational dissent.
- pfortuny 13y agoI understand now your comment and tend to agree with you. However, as you say, that is not properly "politeness" but simple fear, as you say.