My friends are my friends, period.
people who cannot respectfully debate and converse, with ANYBODY of any political or religious leaning, with an open mind and willingness to consider the validity of any and all views, are merely animals who have learned to (presumably) not make messes in the house. All debate is good, all information is neither “bad” or “good”, merely accurate or inaccurate. I grew up in a household with a very liberal mother and very conservative father, rule of thumb - raise your voice or attack the person instead of the argument and you have LOST the debate (and if not a family member have become unwelcome).
I agree 100%. I also grew up in a household where debate was encouraged. It was considered a healthy exercise.
But not everyone engages in civil debate. People either become offended far too easily, or they are offensive (making personal attacks, using profanity, etc.).
I almost jumped into a discussion angrily today. So glad I came here first and asked for advice.
The one thing I think I’ll continue to do is to very politely back up “friends” who’re being attacked.
LOL. I avoided Facebook until this year. I just signed up to stay in touch with extended family. See their photos. Keep up to date on how everyone is doing. I promised myself that I wouldn’t talk politics. But... boy, is it difficult to keep my mouth shut... lol.