Back in the olden days when I was a child, our family had heated political discussion at the dinner table. Not heated in an angry way, but passionate, in an interesting way.

We all participated. And everyone contributed their opinions. But there was a rule, unspoken but followed. Everyone had the right to disagree.

When there was a point being debated, the arguments had to be backed up with facts. It was alright to hold different views on issues, but when your particular view was stated, the reason for your view on an issue had to be explained.

We could disagree. But we couldn’t accuse those who disagreed with us of stupidity, ignorance or insanity. We couldn’t call anyone a liar or get up and leave the

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