Danes feel Obama is greater than Jesus

[--Pete]

Hi,

On a semi-related note, you are tempting me to suspend my policy of not arguing with friends on this forum.

To argue can have (at least) two meanings, to dispute and to discuss. On a forum, which meaning is applicable is determined by the tone one uses. A dispute is an adversarial affair, typically with each (sometimes all) sides trying to prove their point and 'win'. Often a dispute becomes heated. A discussion is simply a group of people exchanging and considering each other's opinions. It does not need to be heated nor controversial. It does force one to examine one's own opinions and the basis for those opinions.

If the only people you will talk to are those that agree with you completely, then you'll have few conversations. If the only things you will talk about are subjects that all agree on, then you'll only have dull conversations. Rational disagreement conducted civilly is how we form opinions, strengthen opinions, and sometimes abandon opinions. It is exercise for the mind, making it stronger and more flexible. And, after fencing, it is the best way to get to know another person.

--Pete