How difficult do you find it to openly discuss your particular views given the climate surrounding the idea of free speech in our country?

SGT Joseph Gunderson — Fri, 23 Jun 2017 09:45:54 -0400

With the idea of the safe space and the need of particular segments of the population to shut down speech that they personally consider offensive, how difficult do you find it to openly discuss your own views with friends, family, co-workers, or strangers? Is the concept of freedom of speech on its way to the scrap heap or does it just need a revitalization?

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 23 at 2017 9:50 AM

MAJ Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 23 Jun 2017 09:50:21 -0400

I don't find it that difficult at all. The Bible lays the framework for telling others about the Gospel and the same thing applies to any other subject. Do it with "Gentleness and respect". If you can talk about issues without getting mad and in a way that isn't designed to enrage the other party, we should be able to talk about anything.

Response by 2LT Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 23 at 2017 9:52 AM

2LT Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 23 Jun 2017 09:52:50 -0400

I normally only discuss my views in depth with people I know a fair amount. For me, the biggest thing I want to know before a discussion about politics is if the person is capable of holding a civil, rational discussion. This is why I do not often discuss my views directly with strangers, I have no way of knowing.
I wouldn't say freedom of speech is at risk, as there is no undue burden on the right, it's more of the ability to hold rational conversations that is at risk.

Response by CPT Jack Durish made Jun 23 at 2017 10:15 AM

CPT Jack Durish — Fri, 23 Jun 2017 10:15:42 -0400

I have no problem with speaking my mind but there sure are a helluva lot of people who are uncomfortable with hearing it.

Response by CSM Richard StCyr made Jun 23 at 2017 10:27 AM

CSM Richard StCyr — Fri, 23 Jun 2017 10:27:35 -0400

I have no problems,
-I just try to keep focused on facts when expressing why I think something is correct or incorrect.

-I don't argue with idiots, smiling and walking away drives them as bat shit as winning a long drawn out debate.

-Fight nicely with friends, family and coworkers, strangers refer to line one and two.