Maybe you’re right, and this is a classic double-bind: Against censorship? Then cheer the firehose of sewage! ... but what’s the alternative here? Do you envision one?
Nice article, you did a nice job and it was thoughtful. Regarding the war on words, I do believe you are right. The regime as you call it, promulgates the argument that "they are only words" to stand as a pre-framed opposition to censorship. On one hand, this is true.. if one is thoughtful and contemplates words and makes purposful value judgements on the words they hear, instead of passively accepting them at face value, words are merely tools. If accepted passively it becomes a different situation all together, words are no longer tools but weapons. Most people do not conduct themselves in line with the former. On the other hand, the statement "they are only words" in effect attempts to obscure the latter, where words and rhetoric have been weaponized and contain significant earth shattering power. The regime will always frame the arguments of its opposition so the real debate is never discussed. To control words, hence language, is to control meaning as well as common social reality.
If we accept the premise words can hurt, and words can destroy the bond of relationship, then we should take care with what we say. At the same time we are called to something higher than mere politics and politeness.
I am reminded that the Saints have said we are to be kind insofar as we are able, but if called to affirm or ignore that which is against God we must always side with Him and speak truth.
Maybe you’re right, and this is a classic double-bind: Against censorship? Then cheer the firehose of sewage! ... but what’s the alternative here? Do you envision one?
The biggest trick ever pulled was when the devil convinced men that he did exist...
Nice article, you did a nice job and it was thoughtful. Regarding the war on words, I do believe you are right. The regime as you call it, promulgates the argument that "they are only words" to stand as a pre-framed opposition to censorship. On one hand, this is true.. if one is thoughtful and contemplates words and makes purposful value judgements on the words they hear, instead of passively accepting them at face value, words are merely tools. If accepted passively it becomes a different situation all together, words are no longer tools but weapons. Most people do not conduct themselves in line with the former. On the other hand, the statement "they are only words" in effect attempts to obscure the latter, where words and rhetoric have been weaponized and contain significant earth shattering power. The regime will always frame the arguments of its opposition so the real debate is never discussed. To control words, hence language, is to control meaning as well as common social reality.
If we accept the premise words can hurt, and words can destroy the bond of relationship, then we should take care with what we say. At the same time we are called to something higher than mere politics and politeness.
I am reminded that the Saints have said we are to be kind insofar as we are able, but if called to affirm or ignore that which is against God we must always side with Him and speak truth.