Draw your own conclusions.
As founder of The Warren Report, Warren Etheredge hosts over 250 events every year,
a podcast and television series. The Warren Report promotes "slow culture" through commentary, outreach,
events and education. Our principle: Smarter audiences make a better world!
Discourse has devolved to the point that I get misty reminiscing about The McLaughlin Group. Oh, the humanity. Ah, the civility. WRONG! Don’t let nostalgia fool you. I won’t. Most Americans value debate about as much as they value sub-titled experimental films. Why think for oneself when it’s so much easier to parrot talking points? Why question the veracity of conflicting spiels when it’s easier to absorb the pre-chewed mendacity of partisan sermons? The converted like being preached to, no matter the message.
However, in high school and college, students are encouraged to study the skills necessary for debate even if they’ll never utilize these abilities post-graduation. It’s like riding a bike, only we’re begged to forget. For those clinging to sense memories of oratorial combat, listen to my interview on KUOW Presents with the fabulous Jeannie Yandel for my top three debate movies… even if their focus on debate is, well, debatable. Then, argue amongst yourselves by commenting on this blog post.
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