Messages

16

Not at the Dinner Table / Re: Homosexuality and Same-Sex Marriage

« on: October 29, 2012, 05:00:00 PM »

In the 'marketplace of ideas':

'If there be any among us who would wish to [see things differently], let them stand undisturbed as monuments of the safety with which error of opinion may be tolerated where reason is left free to combat it.'

I also share his love of macaroni and cheese.

17

Not at the Dinner Table / Re: Homosexuality and Same-Sex Marriage

« on: October 29, 2012, 12:02:18 AM »

Good grief. Nobody is chained to their opinions when they put them into words, even politicians. If opinions change from experience, new evidence, or some sort of enlightenment, then the change should be accepted as rational. When opinions change for no identifiable reason, fallacious reason, or reasons too petty to put into words, that's when you can smirk and be suspicious.

I'm not saying that we should clear the slate of all past bigotry, I'm saying that the reasons that propped up that bigotry should be explored, at least by the person who once made that stake.

At the risk of a fallacious appeal to authority (You be the judge.):

"I am not an advocate for frequent changes in laws and constitutions. But laws and institutions must go hand in hand with the progress of the human mind. As that becomes more developed, more enlightened, as new discoveries are made, new truths discovered and manners and opinions change, with the change of circumstances, institutions must advance also to keep pace with the times. We might as well require a man to wear still the coat which fitted him when a boy as civilized society to remain ever under the regimen of their barbarous ancestors."

18

General Chat / Re: New/Returning Members Post Here!

« on: July 06, 2012, 12:59:35 AM »

Long time lurker; first time poster. Any suggestions?