Do you have the moral courage to post a politically unpopular topic on Rallypoint?

SGM Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 21 Oct 2014 18:10:03 -0400

Response by SGT Richard H. made Oct 21 at 2014 6:14 PM

SGT Richard H. — Tue, 21 Oct 2014 18:14:51 -0400

I don't see why not....however, popularity of a topic is secondary to relevance and posting guidelines in many cases. If it's relevant, and within guidelines, I say post away.

Response by SSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 21 at 2014 6:17 PM

SSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 21 Oct 2014 18:17:42 -0400

You lost me at moral and oh courage. lol

Response by 1SG Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 21 at 2014 6:44 PM

1SG Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 21 Oct 2014 18:44:14 -0400

SGM Private RallyPoint Member I could be wrong, but I think RP is one place where we "might" be able to hold "some" good back and forth discussions on opposing political views. I do believe that many of us are spending more time on RP and less time in the political blogs we were or are part of on FB and other sites. I enjoy the back and forth on opposing sides, however, I have no patience for the name calling, disrespect, and other BS that quickly gets slung in the other sites when someone posts a view that someone else does not agree with....instead of having a debate and backing it up with facts. I have a shorter temprament for those who I label as idiots.....when after be presented reality and facts, revert to the same name calling, slander and BS.

If you prove me incorrect, I have no problem saying, OK, you got me on that one. I doubt, no I know you can't change my political views, yet you can change my viewpoint on certain issues if can be backed up by fact and reality.

For the most part here on RP, we tend to be very respectful of each others current and former rank from our times in service, even when in disagreement. Sometimes it can be a bit testy going back and forth, which is fine with me and I do enjoy, because I have a sarcastic nature and wit to my personality. Many of do at some point.

Now would we see some of the FB idiototic responses, hell yes as many people are blind followers to their political party of choice and when backed into a corner by facts and reality, instead of graceful retreat will still lashout and call you every name in the book ....for proving them incorrect. That is going to happen regardless of which side of the political aisle they chose to stand. Why, beats the hell out of me.

I'll admit in a second that I am so far to to the right with conservative values! Yet many automatically assume that makes me a card carrying Republican. When in fact I am a card carrying registered "Independent".

In the end, when it comes to politics and religion, even when there is a winner, there is no winner. The discussion quickly stray from the "target/topic" of the discussion and become a name calling, personal insults back and forth if one falls into the koolaid!

I do believe that "most" of us, definitely not all, would be able to maintain our bearing in political discussions, yet not convince anyone to rush out to change their political affiliation.
I've seen a few political posts here in the past, a couple went well in differing views and then I recall a couple in which a few quickly showed their ignorance and stupidity going a rant of personal attacks and even down voting some comments.

And to be a realist, I could be proven wrong so quick, it would make my head spin and be like...WTH!

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 21 at 2014 6:54 PM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 21 Oct 2014 18:54:52 -0400

I think I have posted a few. Normally, though, I just respond. SSG Scott Williams is the king of not giving a sh*t when it comes to topics. There is nothing wrong with posting controversial topics.
While we try to tiptoe around them, we could be learning quite a bit. A bulk of people's conflicts are directly related to a breakdown in communication and the alienation of their minds in common interactions.
And besides, most of us, I'd like to think, are a little bit grown-up. *crosses arms*

Response by PO1 Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 21 at 2014 7:21 PM

PO1 Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 21 Oct 2014 19:21:48 -0400

I think the answer is not a question of moral courage regarding a politically unpopular topic on RP. There are any number of topics that would be totally politically unpopular on other social media that would be a rather bland topic on RP. There ARE lines we should NOT cross on RP - not that these subjects are verboten on other social media - but WE should NOT cross those lines that take us out of the arena of discussion that are expected of our AD personnel. Our AD bretheren have limits on what they can and cannot say on topics regarding leadership postitions (i.e. - POTUS, etc.), while retired/veterans don't have such proscriptions. Ergo, we, the veterans and retired communities of RP, must maintain the proprieties in regards such discussions.

Bottom line: there are necessary limits to discussions for the RP audience. If you want to become a part of the idiocy that is FB, etc, go there.

Response by PO2 Rocky Kleeger made Oct 21 at 2014 7:35 PM

PO2 Rocky Kleeger — Tue, 21 Oct 2014 19:35:19 -0400

Yep...I have a knack for pissing people off with my opinions...LOL. Well, maybe not the opinions, themselves, just the way I express those opinions

Response by 1LT David Moeglein made Oct 21 at 2014 8:16 PM

1LT David Moeglein — Tue, 21 Oct 2014 20:16:18 -0400

I have a history of voicing my unpopular opinions in a variety of circles, but don't find the need to do so here. Somehow I feel mainstream in this setting, and my politics are status quo. I can't think of a finer group of men and women to associate with. I think this is because everyone on this website has skin in the game.

Response by 1SG Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 21 at 2014 8:27 PM

1SG Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 21 Oct 2014 20:27:29 -0400

How about economics instead?

Response by SPC James Mcneil made Oct 21 at 2014 8:47 PM

SPC James Mcneil — Tue, 21 Oct 2014 20:47:06 -0400

I would have no issues doing so. I would like to believe that I can have an intelligent conversation with someone that disagrees with me without the name calling and personal attacks that so often go along with discussions on politics, religion, etc.

I have let myself down from time to time in that regard, and I've had some interesting arguments. But for the most part, discussions are just that.

Response by MSG Brad Sand made Oct 21 at 2014 8:50 PM

MSG Brad Sand — Tue, 21 Oct 2014 20:50:56 -0400

Have you seen my posts? Have you seen the replies? I think the short answer is 'Yes'.

Response by Sgt Packy Flickinger made Oct 22 at 2014 2:58 AM

Sgt Packy Flickinger — Wed, 22 Oct 2014 02:58:17 -0400

I've certainly made a few unpopular political comments. So yea, I do. I feel politics need to be discussed. How else are you really going to learn issues important to people. People who say you should never discuss politics are people who fear their viewpoints can't stand scrutiny. Sometimes however, I regretfully make it personally. I'm working on that.

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 22 at 2014 7:53 AM

MAJ Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 22 Oct 2014 07:53:25 -0400

I'm never afraid to state my opinions... sometimes to a fault.

Response by 1LT(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 22 at 2014 9:18 AM

1LT(P) Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 22 Oct 2014 09:18:24 -0400

Irrelevant until this community decides one way or the other on the bigger issue: considering >99% of us have profile pictures in uniform, is it appropriate to be posting such opinions on here? I've replied to several before but lately I'm really trying not to get into those discussions, especially since everyone here has their minds completely made up on said topics already.

NOTE: Doesn't apply to retired vets...love you guys

Response by SFC Michael Hasbun made Oct 22 at 2014 9:51 AM

SFC Michael Hasbun — Wed, 22 Oct 2014 09:51:02 -0400

I think my "downvote" total speaks for itself ;) I will generally hit the issues no one wants to touch, and I will usually go against the traditionally conservative grain... Heck, there are times I will present topics from a standpoint I don't even agree with for the sake of provoking thought and discussion.

Sadly that's often rewarded with outrage as I don't think a lot of people are capable of discussion without making it personal, but cest la vie...

Response by CW2 Joseph Evans made Oct 22 at 2014 10:49 AM

CW2 Joseph Evans — Wed, 22 Oct 2014 10:49:03 -0400

Been there, done that, got the battle scars.

The problem with unpopular topics is that sound bites and memes have already decided so many people on what is "right". Open discourse very rarely retains any qualities of an old school educational debate.

Response by Lt Col Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 22 at 2014 11:25 AM

Lt Col Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 22 Oct 2014 11:25:31 -0400

I have in the past. Probably will again. Although I just got the "limits on political posts" email from the leadership...so it may have to wait until after the elections.

Response by FN Mike McCormack made Oct 22 at 2014 2:52 PM

FN Mike McCormack — Wed, 22 Oct 2014 14:52:46 -0400

As someone else stated...I don't think its a question of courage - maybe more of a question of common courtesy or tact. I do try to be sensitive to the feelings of others, however, Popeye said it best...“I am what I am, and that's all that I am.”!

Response by SGT Scott Curtice made Oct 22 at 2014 8:00 PM

SGT Scott Curtice — Wed, 22 Oct 2014 20:00:23 -0400

I don't mind controversial topics, but some just have no value, those that do, I love, no matter how controversial when there is debate, and not just ignorant banter to state it lightly. You learn so much about yourself and others when someone can provide you perspectives you hadn't thought about. Doesn't mean you end up changing your stance, but you never know.

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 23 at 2014 9:43 AM

CPT Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 23 Oct 2014 09:43:50 -0400

I do not approve of saying something off the wall to intentionally hurt, anger or belittle people. With that being said, I have no problem with expressing myself. I express what I feel I need to even if it gets me audited by the IRS ;)

Response by SFC Mark Merino made Oct 23 at 2014 11:19 AM

SFC Mark Merino — Thu, 23 Oct 2014 11:19:29 -0400

SGT Private RallyPoint Member Agreed, SSG Scott Williams is the King of Controversity. People down-vote the mere topic of a lot of his topics, but the threads really get the responses going! I try to stay away from the controversial hot buttons. I spent a 20 yr marriage arguing that grass is green and water is wet and I'm just too tired I guess. I'm more into the recharge the soul business and pump up the funny bone or veteran support threads. Well done, Scottio!

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 23 at 2014 11:30 AM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 23 Oct 2014 11:30:03 -0400

Controversial topics usually give for the best topics. Not saying that it is fun to make people angry, but isn't America all about being able to speak your mind?

Response by MSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 23 at 2014 11:41 AM

MSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 23 Oct 2014 11:41:54 -0400

I have posted a few and even though many are of like minds there is still very different opinions. But there are those of a different mind and maybe they can add a spin you never thought of. I must admit I tend to think most times everything is black and white. But at times I learn that there might be a little grey. Or heaven for bid I might be wrong.

Response by LTC Paul Labrador made Oct 23 at 2014 12:07 PM

LTC Paul Labrador — Thu, 23 Oct 2014 12:07:35 -0400

But is it posting a non-PC topic or simly trolling....?

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 23 at 2014 8:14 PM

CPT Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 23 Oct 2014 20:14:37 -0400

I have to do it.

Response by CPO Tim Dickey made Oct 23 at 2014 10:00 PM

CPO Tim Dickey — Thu, 23 Oct 2014 22:00:47 -0400

SGM, not shying away here!

Having a thick skin is a key in the being able to post controversial discussions. I don't take negative responses personally as I understand there are a myriad of views that may or may not match my own. I try to be impartial in my responses, see the Latte Salute, so that I offer an alternative view that may not be considered in the broader context. I also will throw a curve ball or two when it comes to protocol, see honor and saluting the National Ensign, to bring out more discussion.

The one thing I do dislike is when people respond to my posts with a broad brush and don't back up their post with the facts or supporting documentation.

Response by CW5 Sam R. Baker made Oct 24 at 2014 4:33 PM

CW5 Sam R. Baker — Fri, 24 Oct 2014 16:33:40 -0400

Surely, and will always be true to the opinion or experience I hold, however, if it end ups having an active duty repercussion it (opinion) could be suspended until I hold that retired veteran status.

Response by LCpl Steve Wininger made Oct 24 at 2014 4:38 PM

LCpl Steve Wininger — Fri, 24 Oct 2014 16:38:01 -0400

Absolutely. I was not put on this earth to go with the flow. God gave me a mind to use, and no two minds are alike. sometimes we will have unpopular ideas. I admire anyone, whether I agree with them or not, for standing up for what they believe.

In my opinion, problems arise when we become so passionate about their belief that they tend to push their ideas on others, or start bashing any opposing viewpoint.

Response by SSgt Chris Enslow made Oct 24 at 2014 6:17 PM

SSgt Chris Enslow — Fri, 24 Oct 2014 18:17:17 -0400

I would have rather talked about these things in the Day Room, rather than permanent print. Not one to shy away from current politics and what needs to happen for us to get back on track, in this company of brothers and sisters, I'd rather talk about these topics in person.

Response by SGM Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 24 at 2014 8:34 PM

SGM Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 24 Oct 2014 20:34:56 -0400

Just posted a new Q about Fragging/Friendly Fire as an example of unpopular topic...

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 30 at 2014 6:59 PM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 30 Oct 2014 18:59:09 -0400

The issue is not limited to RP, it is not even limited to the virtual world. I am going to have to check for the original source on this because I cite it so much.

Researches monitored political conversations of people after answering a political questionnaire. The found that when the group was only homogeneous the most extreme point of view got the largest share of conversational 'Air time'. This is interesting when it is expanded. The reward for air time in a handful of people hanging around is being the center of attention. When that is put into the media sphere extremism now has a value in advertising dollars. Imagine that being an extremist can make you rich.

In a subsequent study they inserted a collaborator into the group who expressed the opposite or a differing opinion. In this case the moderates got the largest share of air time. This explains the value of network news walking the middle line.

In Pinker's book "Better angels of our nature" (I keep getting the title a little off) the author explains how an ideology like National Socialism gains traction in a diverse community. The early adopters are aggressive in silencing the opposition thus even though they may be saying things that are not factually accurate without an opposition people begin to assume they must be right. (Can we say "Birthers" anyone?)

What does this have to do with RP? I believe that we have a duty to have conversations where ideas are challenged and to be the voice that may bring some moderation to a conversation, because I am unable to find an example where extremism lead to good things.

We should challenge our own opinions and look for reliable source to check the facts that inform those decisions. Sometimes we are wrong or our bias brings out unfair snap judgement. But if we engage in discussion things generally come out in a middle ground.

So it is a duty to be challenging on RP. Honest.

Besides, some of us enjoy a good old friendly fight.

Response by MAJ Robert (Bob) Petrarca made Nov 1 at 2014 7:45 AM

MAJ Robert (Bob) Petrarca — Sat, 01 Nov 2014 07:45:47 -0400

I'm not so sure I'd post an unpopular topic (don't think I have so far), but I'll be right there to provide my opinion on one! I do applaud SSG Scott Williams for his ability to do so and have responded on several of his posts.