Extremist rhetoric on health care, water, immigration, gay marriage and the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan or any number of issues has coarsened our political discourse.
Many times, those who “debate” the issues on television or radio often sound more like Howard Beal from the movie “Network,” than policy experts or public statesmen. Apparently and unfortunately, sometimes being a demagogue — using popular prejudices, false claims and promises in order to gain power — works.
Of course, it does not help that we seem to be increasingly willing and able to create our own, private “echo chamber” — where we get news from sources that feed our passions and prejudices and don’t challenge us. It’s difficult to learn, however, if you only listen to what you already know.
And while it may be good business for some media outlets, it may not be good for building an informed society and the mutual understanding that is essential for a functioning democracy.
What is the solution? You’re holding it.
Seek out facts and opinions on these pages that may be contrary to your own. You will be better informed and have a deeper understanding of the complex policy issues we face as a region, state and nation.
Mark Keppler
Clovis
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