Discussion is the Key to Liberty

Why discussion is key to liberty:

The Greek Thucydides  once said "a nation that differentiates between its warriors and its scholars will have its fighting done by fools and its thinking done by cowards."  I believe it is important, given the current state we find ourselves in, that all patriots engage in scholarly activity to the best of their ability. Person has their own gifts and liabilities, not every patriot can be a great thinker. Conversely not every great patriot must be a warrior. It is important in both cases to have an understanding of the other. For without both of these patriots no freedom can be obtained. In this article we will examine why discussion is the key to liberty.

When most citizens began to talk about the meaning of the United States of America, the Federalist and anti-Federalist papers are often invoked. These two papers are extensive writings in which two sides discussed and argue over the future of the American nation. In their dozens of volumes each side analyzes the facts developed theories and opinions and then defend them in public for all to see. "The truth has a certain ring to it," seems apt to recall here.

In our modern age, the availability and use of social media Internet in general and other forms of electronic media the ability to have a discussion is significantly easier than in the past. But as with all things there is a caveat. Significantly more people enter into the discussion with varying amounts of knowledge and opinions. Not all of the knowledge nor opinions are accurate or well thought out.  It is important therefore for anybody engaging in discussions to remain vigilant and skeptical lest we fall for the wrong idea or fight for the wrong cause.

This through discussions and arguments that we come to understand others' opinions and views. By understanding others opinions and views we can reach a common ground and from common ground we can agree to act civilly. Is this civil discourse that we seek so that we can improve the lives of all while simultaneously maintaining our own personal freedoms and liberties. Discussions also serve as a watchdog allowing us to share both positive experiences, and negative experiences, the route our daily lives.

In many ways journalism is an extension of discussion. While many pieces are written in a absolute view or opinion, the truth is that much of the article is up for debate.  The writers personal bias, the bias of its sources, and bias due to proximity or distance from the event being written about all effect the final product. Even this writing has its own bias and is intended to be debated and analyzed. The hope is that each person will draw a similar, albeit slightly different, conclusion.

To all you readers out there, it is my personal hope that you will comment so that we can have discussions. My twitter account @think4liberty and the Facebook page devout constitutionalist are also both available for you to ask questions or make statements at any time. I will do my best to respond to any questions or comments.