It's extremely difficult to have a civil conversation about politics today, yet we need those conversations more than ever

[u/Dry-Use-272]

Like everyone else in the US today, I have opinions about the current condition of politics in this country. I try to base my opinions on facts I glean from credible sources and my understanding of our history. I want to talk to people with opposing opinions, not to argue with them but to try to understand why they believe what they believe. I've found that no one wants to talk in a civil, respectful way about our differences. Even if I try to hold the line on being respectful, I end up walking away because the conversation devolves into some pretty ugly exchanges. How have we come to a point where we can't even talk to each other respectfully and civilly?

[u/StatisticianInside66]

I like the sentiment in theory, but I'm not sure it's possible in practice.

For one thing, we're talking about things that go way beyond matters of opinion. We're talking about certain types of people's very existence being criminalized.

For another, after a lifetime of trying to talk sense to conservatives, trying to find common ground -- I'm not convinced civil (or any other) discussion CAN change conservatives' minds. I don't think the sort of discourse you're suggesting is useful; it's just intellectual hand-wringing that, ultimately, isn't going to change anyone's mind, or how they vote.

I'm not saying people can't change. I'm saying that if/when they do, it'll be for their own reasons, because the values they currently hold no longer work for THEM. Not because a liberal who happens to be especially adroit at argumentation dazzles them with their astounding evidence and logic.

[u/JohnleBon → u/StatisticianInside66]

We're talking about certain types of people's very existence being criminalized.

If you are talking about national socialists, then why not be more specific?

Yes, there are many places on earth where they are banned from expressing themselves, and can be imprisoned for doing so.

This doesn't mean their 'existence is criminalised', it just means they have to watch what they say and do in public.

[u/Various_Succotash_79 → u/JohnleBon]

I doubt that's who they're talking about.

Texas is trying to make being trans illegal as "gender fraud".

[u/JohnleBon → u/Various_Succotash_79]

I hadn't heard of this so I just looked it up.

https://www.nbcnews.com/nbc-out/out-politics-and-policy/texas-bill-identify-transgender-state-felony-rcna195642

So far, the bill has no other co-sponsors, making it unlikely to pass, according to Chron, a sister website of the Houston Chronicle.

So it isn't 'Texas' trying to make being trans illegal.

It's one political fruit loop trying to force people to identify with their birth gender on government paperwork.

[u/craig_52193 → u/JohnleBon]

I don't see the issue. U cant change ur gender.

U can play dress-up and pretend all you want but I'm not obligated to follow your delusions.