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Constructive conversations

I respect the right of others to disagree with me. My research as a scholar of rhetoric is anchored to the idea that argument is both a way of knowing and a productive tool for persuasion. As a regular user of Facebook, my posts often result in vigorous arguments from multiple sides of an issue — all conducted, I hope, in a constructive and respectful manner and frequently leading me to change my position.

This is important to me as a teacher who for over 40 years taught a course in argumentation and promoted the concept of “self-risk” — the notion that one must enter an argumentative exchange open to reflection and the possibility of changing their mind. My own positions on academic and political issues articulated on social media as well as in newspaper op-eds reflect this principle.

Nevertheless, when I first joined Facebook, I pledged that anyone who engaged in ad hominem argument (attacks to the person) would be de-friended. This was not a threat. Nor a punishment. So, when I de-friend someone they know why. I tell them: Feel free to say negative things about me and call me names on your own pages. But as a rhetorician committed to conducting argument “con amore” (with love) and a human being expecting people to be respectful, I choose not to be exposed to hurtful and unproductive discourse.

Imagine how wonderful it would be if politicians and ordinary citizens followed this practice.

Richard Cherwitz

Austin

Truth on the outdoors page

I want to commend the outdoors page published in the weekend edition, specifically columnist Steve Knight. Twice lately he has written very insightful articles regarding the situation at Fairfield State Park in Freestone County, most recently see page B5 in the June 17-18 edition.

The previous column was a few weeks before that date. In both cases he lays the blame for the closing of that park squarely at the feet of the Texas Legisature.

He clearly and correctly identifies the fact that the park could not be saved because your legislators had pilfered the funds that were intended for such purposes and squandered them on other priorities — that they were too cowardly to fund directly. Those are the same elected officials who claim to be fiscally conservative and proudly present themselves as best guardians of the interests of the citizens.

It’s a pretty sad day when you’re more likely to be told the truth in a hunting and fishing column than the front section, where the political news is presumed to be.

Kudos to Mr. Knight for telling the truth, and shame on the Texas Legislature for their trickery.

Tom Mitchell

Mountain Park, New Mexico