Beginnings and Endings – Project 365 +1

February 18, 2012

Post 47/365+1

I can’t believe how passionate and heated conversations on Facebook can become.  I usually manage to stay well clear of controversial subjects on FB for that very reason. However, I made the mistake today of buying into a debate over someone’s post on racism in Australia. WELLLLLL!!! That was a BIG mistake!  The ensuing conversation went on for over TWO hours with just one other person who was very passionate about her point of view and she was still posting (lone) comments long after I had said goodnight and left the conversation.  Among her comments were her thoughts on the state of my education and whether I was a ‘redneck’.  All because I had called into question the authenticity of the videos she was linking to in her comments to me.  I am all for healthy debate and the right to express our opinions, even when we don’t agree;  but I am not fond of being sworn at, or being told I am not educated because my opinion differs from someone else’s.

The internet has made it so easy to access information that is not 100% accurate, and people believe it because it on the internet.  Videos are put together in people’s lounge rooms and uploaded to Youtube; racist conspiracy theorist type videos that pander to a certain type of viewer.  Unfortunately, the information they contain is often biased to the maker’s own viewpoint and pays scant attention to the truth.  Sadly this is becoming more and more common with the spread of social media and the easy access we all have to it.

As for being an uneducated redneck, my comments were all about how I believe Australia is a tolerant and welcoming nation, a wonderful melting pot of different cultures and that all religions have their fair share of atrocities committed in the name of their God.  Shocking, I know.  I also quoted some reliable sources in regards to the Christian Crusades and the Illuminati and pointed out some historical facts to the lady in question.  All the while remaining calm and polite.  It is great that people feel passionate about their beliefs, but we need to be able to debate/argue in a reasonable fashion without making personal attacks on others.  Our differences keep life interesting, manners keep it bearable.

Quote of the Day:  In religion and politics, people’s beliefs and convictions are in almost every case gotten at second-hand, and without examination.  ~Mark Twain