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On the Ethics and Politics of Public Debate: Quarterly Essay 87 by Scott Stephens, Waleed Aly
bridgetkay's review
challenging
informative
reflective
fast-paced
4.0
A very interesting essay that combines elements of philosophy, history and politics that challenges contemporary moral battlegrounds and the stubborn defensiveness of opinion. This essay validated my hiatus from social media but also challenged me to reflect on when I too held on to my views to the detriment of constructive discussion. An important reminder, and a cautious warning for Australia’s ever growing divisive political spectrum.
hamiltoncallum10's review
informative
medium-paced
4.0
A surprisingly good read from Waleed who I obviously wrongly thought of just as a talking head on the Project. He makes a very compelling argument that contempt runs completely against democracy's emphasis that all people have intrinsic and equal value as moral actors. It is frightening how prevalent contempt is both in and as the result of our political interactions based on the vision Waleed gives us.
I have two criticisms of the essay though. First, I think Waleed makes the same mistake he is arguing the rest of us avoid by framing what he writes almost entirely for mostly liberal or moderate readers. This makes it seem like he is telling us to forgive those who have caused real hurt and harm without any substantial actions on their part. Secondly - and as a result of the previous approach - Waleed struggles to offer any real solutions that push away from the status quo. Because it seems like the article admires the problem I have come away wondering what is to be done about it.
I have two criticisms of the essay though. First, I think Waleed makes the same mistake he is arguing the rest of us avoid by framing what he writes almost entirely for mostly liberal or moderate readers. This makes it seem like he is telling us to forgive those who have caused real hurt and harm without any substantial actions on their part. Secondly - and as a result of the previous approach - Waleed struggles to offer any real solutions that push away from the status quo. Because it seems like the article admires the problem I have come away wondering what is to be done about it.
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