Monday, July 10, 2017

Walpole's Way, or the Highway


"In my youth I thought of writing a satire on mankind; but now in my age I think I should write an apology for them." - Horace Walpole
So, even way back in the 18th century people were so distressed by what they saw happening in the world around them they secretively (or openly as well) felt bad for the planet and its inhabitants. Or more specifically, the way that their perceived perception of how the world should operate was being hijacked and destroyed. Walpole was concerned about the political factions of the Whigs and the Tories as they struggled for power in England. He specifically was worried that the Tories were increasing in power over the infighting Whigs, which in his opinion would deliver an unlimited and absolute monarchy to the British Isles.
Sound familiar. 

Substitute Republicans for Tories and Democrats for Whigs.


Or when the previous administration was in power, substitute Republicans for Whigs and Democrats for Tories.

Hard to follow? I will agree with that and that is the main reason I refuse to follow anymore.

It is really about labels and perspectives, not to mention the times that we are living in. And labeling is so, so tiring and time consuming and frustrating and pointless.


And it also seems to be a bit selfish, to be so passionate about a viewpoint that you paint opposing sides as being worthy of an apology because you share that different perspective. It feels a bit like it hits you at that point where you discard the kind regard that people could have for one another were it not for the simple fact they can be found sitting on a different side of an issue fence.

Can you think of a time where you ever changed someone's mind anyways? Generally when you are trying to do that you end up witnessing them dig into their opinions deeper and hold on to them even tighter.

I have given in to the fact that critical thinking is the path that needs to be followed, and that path will allow you to touch everyone with understanding and not try to influence perspectives.