Posted on 08/04/2020 8:34:54 AM PDT by Sir Napsalot
Author and First Things Editor R.R. Reno stepped away from his office and did some old fashioned reporting. He visited several Midwestern states that were key in the 2016 election. He wanted to get a better feel of the country’s mood away from the East Coast and mainstream media.
One of the men he interviewed shared: “Right now journalists seem ignorant of what most people are thinking, perhaps willfully so … In all fairness, most people won’t say what they’re thinking. It’s too dangerous.”
A new Cato Institute Survey confirms this fear. “Nearly two-thirds—62%—of Americans say the political climate these days prevents them from saying things they believe because others might find them offensive,” the study found. “Majorities of Democrats (52%), independents (59%) and Republicans (77%) all agree they have political opinions they are afraid to share.”
Only “strong liberals” in the Cato study feel free to speak their minds in public.
(Read it all.)
(Excerpt) Read more at breitbart.com ...
Also Leftists have the tendency of not distinguishing individuals and different ideas from individuals. They always say/do stuff in the collective "WE", even though it is only one person's opinion.
Last thing, I strongly suggest FReepers read the linked article by R.R. Reno, AN ANGRY NATION. Besides our own anecdotal experience, the author has captured the current mood of the nation.
I have been banned from forums, some of which I’ve been a member of for over a decade, not because I violated rules, but because the admins have deemed my information “dangerous”. All of it during this virus insanity.
the historical word to describe this situation is “tyranny” -and its the most convenient means of suppressing an unwinnable argument
It what the Left always resorts to as their arguments always break down in the face of reality
Depending on the location/time of the opinions, it isn’t fear but wisdom.
I don’t discuss politics at work.
I don’t discuss religion at work.
Fear or or wisdom?
“Only ‘strong liberals’ in the Cato study feel free to speak their minds in public.”
And they never, EVER shut up!
The Trump campaign has an spot on YouTube called “Cards” in which a black woman displays cue cards showing her support, but she says nothing. Toward the end, one of her cards explicitly states that she is afraid to voice her opinion.
I think these ads are effective. I would like to see one stating that in the voting booth, you can really speak honestly. That’s where it counts. That’s where you can speak your mind. No one will know, but still you can make a difference.
This is why Trump will win in a landslide - if we are allowed to vote in person.
“An Angry Nation’
Will do! Bookmarked.
I am not afraid. However, you cannot convince an 100% emotional (irrational) person that they are wrong. It is a waste of time.
I too have been reprimanded for being a meanie. Instead of accepting the moderators reprimand, I closed my account. It is a waste of my valuable time.
What’s so funny is that I’m not the meanie. They are. It’s comical - in a way. I just keep being polite but direct and eventually they remove me.
“Self-Censorship Has Nearly Two-Thirds of Americans Afraid to Share Their Beliefs”
Well I just censor myself here.
Hint:
Did you know there is a hidden thread on Free Republic due to the hate?
Could that be self-censorship on Free Republic?
I find myself Self-Censorship on Free Republic too.
Everybody needs to read “An Angry Nation”.
Just sensor again
Without insulting anyone and my opinion only, Social Media is used by people who feel inadequate and need reassurance and affirmation and there is very little logic and common sense and facts. People are not looking for a way to communicate but a way to yell (in a virtual way) what they have been told by others and agree with.
Plus, you know that it is being monitored and anything you post can and will be used against you even if it completely minor and innocent.
“We are getting closer and closer to this.”
We are there already. I self-censor and hide my true beliefs daily at work. I would be fire instantly if they knew my religious beliefs.
“This is why Trump will win in a landslide - if we are allowed to vote in person.”
You must be referring to voting by secret ballot — very important. An honest election is ruined if people must expose their voting choices to others.
bookmark
I know Reno. Had dinner at his house a few times. Good guy for sure.
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