[koan]

thanks for the link, liv.

that post was probably the best I've ever read on a forum. I came close to having an epiphany while reading it. I didn't read on because, typically, a good post is followed up by narrow minded rejection and attack and it's too early in the morning (here) to stomach that yet. I might go back later and read more.

along the same lines as to why I haven't read further on the link...the use of all terms like Zionist, crypto-Nazis, neocon, liberal, etc is only appropriate if use to describe oneself. Labeling another poster, IMO, is presumptious and labeling a train of thought is far too simplistic. Someone can have similar beliefs to a known movement without having to subscribe to all of them. I think most often the terms are bandied about to try and get posters to back down from arguments lest they be branded with a name they don't like. As an intimidation tactic it is vile and counterproductive to free, intelligent thought.

Originally Posted by livius drusus

Confused yet? Good. My work here is done. I'll leave the cogent argumentation to y'all then.

you bring cogent argumentation to threads by pointing things out here. Left to ourselves it seems many discussions devolve to name calling and subtle ad hominems that take from the legitimacy of the discussion. Though not so much on this board as on others.