DO WE need to talk about each other with a little more civility? At a time of apparently widening divisions, the development of sectarian politics unknown in England since the 18th century, and the willingness of MPs to label each other racist at the drop of a TV interview, would it help if we showed a little more restraint?
At the weekend TCW writer Sean Walsh called for the public to abandon niceness and call out lying for what it is, no matter if it coarsens debate.
‘At the risk of being too personal (or perhaps for the sake of it),’ Mr Walsh said, ‘have you noticed how the sustained dishonesty of this current Cabinet has been flagged up in the way they look? If our Prime Minister has a portrait in the attic I wonder at the state of it.’
You can read the full article here.
A respectful rebuke to Mr Walsh comes from Robert Worms of Totnes in Devon.
‘Is the role of Prime Minister becoming impossible?’ Mr Worms asks. ‘The sheer volume of abuse being levelled at Keir Starmer is, I think, concerning. Whilst we may agree with much of the criticism of his Government, the obscene chanting, the personal attacks, the constant stream of insulting and offensive remarks is hardly illuminating or civilised.
‘If we replace intelligent discourse on political issues with name-calling and puerile repellent language, we are making a huge mistake. Anyone of ability and sensitivity will certainly avoid being exposed to such repulsive assaults on their character. So we will be left with the thick-skinned and ignorant in charge of us. And the circle will continue with mediocre-quality candidates, public rage, resignation, and another poor-quality candidate.
‘I think we should show more respect. Disagree, put forward alternative policies. But show the elected person some degree of politeness. Whether we like it or not, those elected by us reflect the society which elected them.
‘The level of political rage has now exceeded a sensible point.’
TCW welcomes readers’ views.
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