After many months of bitter debate about the Voice, an address to the National Press Club this week reminds us that we are back at a point where it seems that, no matter what the truth may be, we will not let it lead to any change, writes Laura Tingle.
Couldn’t agree more. In general, I think left leaning people make the mistake of overly debating the points that right leaning people make and this creates a lot of confusion and muddies the waters to the detriment of the left leaning. I’ll explain why. These are generalities and cut both ways too.
A lot of arguments aren’t made in good faith. Trying to rationally and logically explain/debate something when the other side isn’t making decisions rationally or logically usually doesn’t work. (explaining why fear mongering isn’t valid)
Debating a bad idea directs too much focus towards that idea and makes it harder for good ideas to be heard. This leads people to missing the point or not seeing the bigger picture. (arguing that there are already indigenous people in parliament)
Recognising that some ideas are based on emotional opinions can lead to trying to directly counter that in an emotionally adversarial way. (if you don’t support me you’re racist!)
I think making these mistakes can too easily turn discussions into identity clashes and further entrenches pre held ideas. Obviously you should respond to concerns and as long as the discussion stays civilised there’s no problem. Unfortunately not many people are able to discuss different ideas without taking it personally.
I’m grateful to everyone here that has done their best to express their opinions without resorting to personal comments.
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