Lately, especially in social media, I have my doubts if people can speak politics and play nice in the big sandbox of life. The lines in the sand are becoming deep and divided.
What happened to a good old-fashioned, healthy, respectful discussion or debate? I still see it, occasionally and participate in some at times, but the debates where we discuss the issues, the candidates, the political process (like it or not) with thoughtful inquisitiveness and healthy banter seem to be waning.
At least from my circles in social media. It seems to be standard protocol to unfriend, unfollow, resort to name calling or mudslinging when topics of politics begin online.
Why? Because we have differing views? Isn’t that what makes our country terrific? We have the right to make political choices, statements, WE HAVE THE RIGHT TO VOTE!
Democrats can be friends with Republicans, Unitarians and Independents. Can’t we?
I’m a registered voter with a political party. Do I always vote within that party? No. Sometimes not even close. Other times I fully support the party, the candidates nominated within the party, the stance.
What worries me is this outpouring of anger, hatred and divisiveness is hurting us, not pushing us forward. I think the minority of those slinging their views as the ONLY views are making the majority shy away from healthy discussions and debates. I don’t like the’ Us verses Them’ mentality I’m reading. I seriously dislike the character assassinations within the media. Gone seem to be the days of an actual interview. If a journalist asks a question, time should be given for an answer. Seems simple.
What happened to “We the republic?” I embrace our differences. I value our freedom to choose. What worries me is it seems many are silencing their views based upon the nastiness that often follows when they express them.
Have you noticed a drop in followers or friends becoming enemies simply based upon differing political views? How does this affect you?
I fully admit that I’m unfollowing people that have negative things to say about my party. I’ve been so disappointed to see the meanness in regards to people’s weight, age and jobs in life. I don’t need those people in my twitter stream.
If you don’t have anything nice to say…you should shut the h*ll up.
Yes, Connie, I’m just looking for a little R-E-S-P-E-C-T. But if I tweet something that has leanings toward my party and my party is not your party, would that provoke you to unfollow me? I hope not. Because I try hard not to spread hate, rather provide information you can read or not read.
No. It’s when people tweet (or RT) hurtful and mean things that I get turned off. I try hard to only tweet positive things that I’m excited about. I also don’t want anyone to be offended by my tweets. I just can’t tolerate the attacks.
Same for me, Connie!
I haven’t noticed a drop in followers but I have noticed a drop in my willingness to take bait. I ignore political discussions a lot more than I used to because so much of the “dialog” is actually talking AT people. Most people have their minds made up, so what is to be gained by hammering and yammering? Like you say, it becomes very uncivil and divisive.
On the other hand, I do like it when I find people open to exploring other viewpoints. Which means I have to be open. And see people as more than their political party.
Great post, Rajean.
Yes! ‘Open to explore other viewpoints.’ Learn something new. Thank you, Lori!
I try to only write about politics when it is personal. But even then in a way that is (hopefully) inclusive. I grew up with very active Republican Grandparents and a Mother that is Independent. I always appreciate civil conversation. And I ALWAYS run from aggressive debates.
Dresden, I think your rule is a good one, ‘only write about politics when it is personal.’ I try to write mostly from the commentary side of issues in the news. I hope all my friends and readers realize from my writing, I may have differing views, but I respect all and appreciate we have the right to share them. Happy to see you stop by and share!