Democracies are usually defined as "the rule of the majority" or "a government for the people, by the people." This definition grants the citizens much power! Every citizen is said to have the ability to influence public policies!
It seems to me, that if this power is granted to you by the social contract, you have a responsibility to use it. In order to use it well, however, you must make educated decisions, and therefore get informed before having an opinion.
During this recent crisis and the even more recent health care debate, arguments were and still are being "thrown" without, it seems, much thought. Maybe we, as "rulers" of this country, need to think critically about different points before coming to a conclusion. Listening to the other party is crucial when thinking critically, especially since we all want the same - what's best for our country.
It is also important, I think, to be able to change your mind. Part of critical thinking is the ability to adjust your opinion when the "other side" brings a convincing argument. Being called a "flip-flopper" should not be considered an insult. On the contrary, a "flip-flopper" is someone who can adjust their position when they hear a convincing argument! (too much of anything is never good, of course. and so being "too much of a flip-flopper" and being influenced by all is not positive either.)
This blog is only meant to help think about different issues with several perspectives. If you have something constructive to add, or you disagree with something I have written, please comment! It would help me gain a new perspective as well!!
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