My mid-February blog, Our Embattled Culture Against Man, prompted some reader comments. Here they are, plus a question for you at the end.
Carol T — You have made a very deep statement about our culture. Sadly, we are addicted to the fight and encouraged to do so from a very young age. If we don’t, “we get soft” and eaten by someone who uses power. To change our world????? I don’t think it is possible. Unfortunately.
Nancy S — I am a girl and therefore treated differently. Maybe more like you, the foreigner. I was taught to give everyone every chance. To be nice. To help the underdog. So, that’s where I come from. Not the political world that gets so much press.
Claire C — Loved your article about finding a good fight as the American Way. Being reasonable or negotiable isn’t the point at all. As you said, win-lose people don’t have any idea about both sides being a win-win, if positions aren’t so rigidly drawn.
Hank M — Did you see where there is a strong core of members of the GOP who want to start another arm that doesn’t include Trump lovers and supporters? IOW a return to the older GOP when there were strong platforms for civil rights, immigration reform, defense spending reform, etc.
Neville P — Again, a good article, except that I am left wanting a solution, not just an answer. If it is basic human nature to be combative, how about turning the antagonists’ weapons back on them. For example:
- Use the power of your 4-step decision process to establish consensus.
- Strategize by consultation to bring about cultural change, engage/act immediately, let reason dominate, overwhelm by cultural change, keep moving.
- Expose lies and contradictions and emphasize them by repetition.
- Expose camouflage and deceit, disorient by showing the value of consensus, deflect by …, expose disguises.
- Demoralize, exhaust by asking appropriate questions to bring out true feelings.
- Expose denials, speak unambiguously, expose contradictions, use the other side’s words against them.
- Use the most advanced technology and weapons.
One reader initiated this brief conversation.
Janice J — I am curious. You are thoughtful, so I’d love to hear about your decision to title this blog, Our Embattled Culture Against Man. Inquiring minds want to know……..
Barry P (me) — Would you prefer People? or Culture?
I did worry about that. “Man” seems dated. It was an inclusive term that has now become exclusive.
JJ — I think it’s so important to find an inclusive term. If you can’t, perhaps that struggle is for another blog. Our culture is very embattled against women. (to use your word)
I wonder how others in your circle react? I find the use of ‘Man’ offensive.
BP — I guess I should have paid more attention to my feelings. What word/title would be better?
JJ — I think your struggle with this is a topic for another blog. Your struggle, your process with this, and your problem in finding inclusive language is a serious topic. I think you have a wonderful opportunity to engage your readers about Our Embattled Culture Against Man, possibly a topic very important in their lives.
Question
How do you experience our combative culture?
How has it affected your life?
Please put your answers in the Comments box below.
Your answers will be in my next blog. Thank you.
me, Barry Phegan
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