Theos-Talk Archives (September 2004 Message tt00525)

Perry
For a number of weeks, you and some of your well-meaning colleagues 
have patiently repeated and re-repeated certain points of view, due 
to the seeming inability of some contributors to understand your 
points.
Finally, you have challenged this apparent inability by suggesting 
dishonesty. I concur, for such it is.
The forms of dishonesty you have highlighted are highly prized in 
political circles, being age old techniques used to avoid the truth 
of matters.
Failing to answer questions directly, muddying the waters with 
unrelated information, diverting the conversation onto other topics 
and false accusations of an unsubstantiated nature are just some of 
methods which have clearly been used by some, whether consciously or 
unconsciously, in a vain attempt to defend the indefensible.
In essence, these are acts of violence because they summarily dismiss 
others' points of view and attempt to overpower and dominate the 
agenda with their own dogma.
This is disappointing for a discussion group such as this. Hiding 
behind the respectability of free intellectual discussion to avoid 
issues and unjustly condemn others is unethical and unacceptable.
This does not manifest freedom, it is merely the use of disreputable 
tools of disempowerment to profess blind faith.
Best wishes to you and others for your quest for truth in debate.
Nigel