[newheart]

Civility has all but disappeared in political discourse. The vitriol, often irrational and unfounded, of many comments on this forum are a good example. It is much easier to call people names than to familiarize oneself with issues and discuss them rationally. (I am not disparaging FR, I've been guilty, too.)

However, calls to civility can sometimes be interpreted as a call to stifle passionate belief and the bold expression of that belief. Is moderation in political expression always called for? When does self-control result in lukewarmness? Is it possible to retain that passion and yet maintain respect for those who disagree?

These are important questions, and given the growing potential for cultural chaos and even violence surrounding elections as the electorate becomes more and more divided, it is worth consideration. The article is long but a good read.

[cuban leaf]

—Civility has all but disappeared in political discourse.—

That is because after almost 250 years it is reaching a head.

[vikingd00d]

I would remind you that extremism in the defense of liberty is no vice! And let me remind you also that moderation in the pursuit of justice is no virtue!

— Barry Goldwater

[RockinRight]

Civility went out the door a long time ago. Civility these days is just a code-word for political correctness.

[Navy Patriot]

Now that all things and persons DemocRat have become reprehensible to the majority of Americans, we need the Republicans to stop talking about it.