To the Editor
Is what we refer to as “our truth”, actually only “our opinion or belief”? And, if only “our opinion or belief” does it still have value? And if it has value is its worth measured by its appreciable contribution to the truth (i.e. supported by substantive facts?)
Ostensibly, politics encompasses political science, and science is a discipline which should always challenge belief (opinion) as it seeks truths. This process creates intrinsic political tension because governments being amoral do not care about truths but only power and control. Subsequently, politicians too often surrender to their weaker sides applying belief (ideology) and identity politics to gain power. This has created a deep political chasm in this nation, one that has manifested itself into tribal hatred.
Governance is science and serious people do not accept or reject ideas without fierce and competitive debate. Productive debate relies on opposing parties engaged in good faith exchanges in order to affect the best result.
Belief, and identity politics have created a vacuum and that vacuum has been filled with cynicism and deceit. This reality makes it all the more important for us to forego both, engage in civil debate, uniting this nation. Taking sides only encourages continued bad behavior by manipulative leaders. Demanding responsible and responsive government is the defining difference between retaining a rational and viable democracy or succumbing to a New World Order run by internationalist and quacks.
Dennis Petrucelli
Village of Bonnybrook