I appreciate your apology.
Our first couple of discussions did go the way you’re suggesting. I generally got the better of them. They decided, then, to take a more fundamental approach... Rather than start with discussions on current policy, let’s set the framework for what are the proper functions of government.
The first email I received from one of the other men opens the thread. Obviously, he falls on the socialist side of the equation.
My response was presented from a philosopher/humanist perspective to speak to them on their terms. They’ve already made it clear that they don’t hold the reverence I do for the Constitution nor believe the Bible was a significant resource to our Founding Fathers. This is my attempt to hit them where they live instead of presenting arguments they will dismiss without consideration.
If I can gain their acceptance of these universal truths, I will pursue the arguments further to their logical conclusions.
They'll come back with "Why no one, of course."
From that point on, you own the argument.
L