EDITOR’S NOTE: The following letter responds to a story headlined “Conservative philosophy talk triggers 5 walkouts” on a Nov. 11 presentation in UNC Asheville’s Great Quotes Philosophy Lecture Series.
•
Perhaps I am a bit late in writing this, but I am writing to thank Publisher John North for running the front-page story chosen for the November issue (of the Daily Planet).

I believe the story illustrated wonderfully the views of right-wing authoritarians in today’s society as well as the need to demand more debate between people like Richard Kranker and those people who actually know what they are talking about.

Kranker’s views are popular, and educated people should not ignore views such as those Kranker holds. He is a member of our society who deserves more respect than that.

Since elaborate views can apparently wobble atop a few carefully selected half-truths, arguing with people like Kranker is well worth the little effort it would take, whether they are on the right or the left.

It may be impossible to argue with talk-show hosts who spend hours a day feeding propaganda to people like Kranker, but those who hold opposing views can argue with Kranker on the streets and in public forums.

I am glad to read that some people made the attempt to argue with Kranker instead of walking out on him, but those who find themselves fit for arguing seem to accomplish very little whenever they show up a man’s ignorance without trying to educate him. Someone should have educated Kranker about (economist) Ronald Coase when it came up in the discussion.

It would have also been helpful if someone could have reminded Kranker that there are right-wing atheists, that genius often thrives among the working class, that Roosevelt saved capitalism instead of introducing socialism (which is exactly what will also happen with Obama, unfortunately) and that the history of anarchist movements offers a viable socialist alternative to state power.

Appeals to a right-winger’s sense of compassion is a waste of time.