A Shout Out to P&R'ers

[Bengalzona]

(11-22-2016, 01:08 AM)Vas Deferens Wrote: My standpoint on several issues have been informed by some on these boards I would not normally come in contact with, at the very least they've taken a router and eased my corners on the stance a bit. 

Even if a person is totally entrenched in a viewpoint, the act of engaging with others with an opposing viewpoint helps define that view and aids in presenting your argument. You can't really argue an opinion when you have no idea what the opposing opinion really is.

(11-22-2016, 01:19 AM)Mike M (the other one) Wrote: Sheet there's all kinds of fun things to read about here and some one to argue with makes it better.
FB arguing is annoying cause relatives get pissed and it makes for awkward moments at family gatherings.

Yeah. They were talking in a Fox radio news story about handling political arguments at Thanksgiving yesterday.

(11-22-2016, 03:16 AM)RICHMONDBENGAL_07 Wrote: Oddly enough I do like coming here to get enough I do enjoy coming here to see an unfiltered opinion.  I don't really hate anyone hear.  With a few exceptions I think a lot here fall center left or center right.  Most are just trying to make it in the world and enjoy friends and families.  Anyway hope everyone enjoys the holiday's coming up.

I suspect people naturally gravitate more to the center.

(11-22-2016, 09:07 AM)Belsnickel Wrote: Ain't that the truth. My wife and I can discuss things because even if we disagree, we are both nformed enough to know it is a matter of philosophical differences. Beyond that, I can't talk aout these things wih others I know.

For most, they are the typical "uninformed stalwarts" (I'm trademarking that term, FYI) that don't really understand the issues but are stubbornly for a person or policy they have done zero research on. We all know these people, they are everywhere.

Then there are the ones I know that are political scientists (my office is next to the building poli sci is in, so we interact a lot) and talking about this stuff with them is interesting, but goes way over my had sometimes.

So this leaves me to come here. For the most part, people on here are actively seeking out political information. We may not agree with where they get it or with the content itself, but that's what our "discussions" are for. People on here tend to know what is going on, and some even get it from different sources. I follow both GOP and Dem folks and organizations on Twitter, but they aren't as responsive when I contradict them.

One thing is for certain, we have four years of some interesting discussions ahead, and you can't blame us Dm leaning folks for it!

I think we provide a unique and 'safe' place for people to express their political opinions. We don't mod political opinions. It is all about how you treat others in expressing your opinions.

(Note: Racism is not considered a political opinion here. That falls into the 'not treating others well' category.)