Hello, my name is Flynn, and I’m a closet political nerd. I’ve learned early on that politics is off putting to most people in my family, and social circle, so I hardly discuss the state of affairs of our country, and world with family, and friends. I enjoy debating, and having my view points challenged. I’ve searched on around the internet for such a forum to do just that, and for the most part have been pretty disappointed. I find a lot of echo chambers, or environments that are just completely toxic, tribalist, and just mean spirited. I look forward to civil discourse, and opportunities to not only examine my own view points, but make a serious effort to take the time to make a real effort to consider other people’s opinions. Respectfully, Flynn
Welcome to the Forum, Flynn. I hope to see you in the forums. If you have any questions or problems, please do not hesitate to ask help from any of the moderation staff. We want you to have the best experience possible and if we can avert any problems with a rules explanation or an explanation of our procedures, then it will make our jobs just that much easier. Argue intelligently and passionately, Support your arguments with links, data, evidence, logic and reasoning and listen to what your opponents are saying and with that we hope through the clash of ideas, scintillas of truth and wisdom will be sparked.
Welcome. I would say that there is some tribalism to be seen 'round here, but no tribe dominates, and the rules keep people pretty civil despite their differences. There's no shortage of trolls and ne'er-do-wells about, but at least there is an ignore function
Hey, Flynn. I can completely empathize with your plight of having an interest in politics, but a politically-disinterested family, and circle of friends. You'll certainly find people, motivated to express political opinions, here. As in the country, as a whole, there's a substantial amount of partisanship, as well as people who approach their beliefs in a fundamentalist fashion, being intrinsic to their philosophy & life perspective, and so who will be insensible to any counter-arguments. That said, there are also open minds, on the forum, and I'm very glad to welcome someone who sounds as if he will add to that number. Good luck, learning the ropes, and becoming acquainted with the more familiar members. If there are any questions for which I might be able offer assistance, I invite you to send me a private message. I'm happy to share anything I've learned over my year-plus on this site. Cordially yours, DEFinning
Welcome Flynn, the Golden Rules are to never take anything personally and never insult those you are debating with. Keep your emotions in check and put your passion into making your case for your position as strong as possible. As Lee S mentioned above providing credible nonpartisan sources combined with sound reasoning and logic are what makes for a positive experience here irrespective of wherever you are on the political spectrum.
