Too Much of a Good Thing

In 1682, John Locke went in to exile in Holland after expressing views regarding freedom of religion and the rights of citizens, which were contrary to the beliefs and aims of the King. A number of more prominent revolutionaries were executed for similar, yet admittedly more outspoken, views. The idea of exile and execution for expressing views contrary to authority is something that is quite foreign to us. In fact, it's downright troubling.

Over 300 years later, we have run in to a different problem. As a junior in high school, I remember being openly mocked by a few unsavory classmates for faithfully standing and saying the Pledge of Allegiance each morning. What's worse, defense of and loyalty to then-president George W. Bush was often met with a great deal of scorn. Fast forward a few years and I find myself doing the same thing to the Democrats. Of course I think I have a bit more tact, and I try to focus more on policy differences than personal attacks, but I still have a hard time accepting the ideas of those on the other side of the debate.

Let me clarify: by no means do I think the right to question our political leaders is a bad thing. On the contrary, it's what makes America work. However, I fear that we may be taking a good thing too far. Since the 17th century, civilization has gradually allowed more freedom to share ideas that extend farther and farther toward the end of the spectrum. There has become little or no grey area; instead we have all been compelled to chose between black and white, right or left. What's more, people are passionate and unyielding. The paradoxical and hypocritical nature of our culture is staggering and frightening. Extremist groups such as the Tea-Party and the Occupy Wall Street movements are garnering more and more support from those who once stood on neutral or moderate ground. The art of compromise is quickly dying, but the art of war is heating up.

So what do I suggest? Well, maybe we should censor the Internet. I don't know. Or maybe we just need to regain a little bit of our humanity. Although we can't compel others to follow our lead, we can at least set the example by putting Christ first in our lives and remembering to love everyone (even those who express views contrary to our own). Our freedom of speech and thought is precious; let's not abuse it.