On the Mormon Coffee blog today is a re-statement of what I said, this time directed at posters to that website. They say it so well, I'm quoting it here:
Consider these two fictional examples of comments:
“I disagree with your conclusion. I don’t think it makes any sense, and here’s why.”
This is a criticism directed at an argument; it is welcome on Mormon Coffee.
“Jason, you are an idiot. You only talk about this because you hate Mormons. You should be ashamed of yourself.”
This is a criticism directed at a person; it is not part of a respectful dialog.
Christian author and speaker Greg Koukl has pointed out,
“The minute one is labeled mean-spirited simply for raising an opposing view, it cuts off debate. This simply isn’t fair. We avoid what may be a legitimate discussion by simply calling names. Worse, we compromise our ability to know the truth.
“It’s absolutely imperative that we not silence dissent in this way. We ought to learn how to argue fairly, reasonably, and graciously. We need to cultivate the ability to disagree with civility and not take opposition personally. We also must have the grace to allow our own views to be challenged with evidence, reasoning, and Scripture. Those who refuse to dispute have a very poor chance of growing in truth.”
Sound advice for young couples, and the rest of us, too.
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