Are you a Trump lover or hater?
Actually, you don’t need to answer that. I asked because I’m hoping we can talk about the lack of civility in politics these days.
We NEED political discussion, even rigorous debate, because ideas matter. If we want to find the best ideas, they must be brought into battle where they'll compete with other ideas. This is how we create the best civil society.
Civility is critical to both society and competition, but we seem to have misplaced it lately.
That’s why the recent Michigan vs Michigan State game gave me hope. Look at the photo below. In it, you’ll see two teams battling on the field, competing to win and, unapologetically, intent on defeating the other team.
Now look at the fans behind them. There are lots of green and white Spartans, with plenty of maize and blue jackets sprinkled between them. How were "enemies" able to attend the game together? Can we manage this in politics?
I went to a pre-game tailgates hosted by a Spartan, who intentionally invited Wolverines, and saw first hand that the two groups of fans were able to break bread and drink beer together. There was a lot of ribbing, but there was also a lot of hugging.
I think we should start our political discussions with a hug, and then call unsportsmanlike conduct if the civility gets lost.
Don't expect me to wade into the outcome of the game, because two of my family members went to State and two went to Michigan. I'm neutral like S(tate)zerland.
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