I do think that it is about time we concentrate on the present and people should just quit trying to convince others that the Founding Fathers and other leaders were all Christians. Like politicians throughout history, their public speeches were replete with references to God, but their actions were also hypocritical with regard to slavery, and other freedoms. In the early days, most were deists and Abraham Lincoln was saved by his friends when he was dissuaded from publishing an atheist essay. He found that in order to get elected, references to God were helpful. Cherry picking their public statements is of little value in determining actual beliefs and philosophies. Fortunately, this nation has managed to exist with separation of church and state intact.
Confirmation bias is the often unconscious act of referencing only those perspectives that fuel pre-existing views, while at the same time ignoring or dismissing opinions, no matter how valid, that threaten their world view. The sad thing is that there are so many people who just do not recognize facts. Facts can be verified if one takes the time and does the research. So much of the information presented on these editorial pages consists of lies and inaccuracies generated by Fox News, the tea party newsletter, and many Internet posts.
There are some who blame the liberal media for criticism of the tea party. However, I have read the tea party newsletter and letters of tea party members. The criticism of President Obama and the government is unrelenting. There is opposition to virtually all government agencies and the opposition to gay rights, abortion, social programs, nonbelievers, etc., is unending. The tea party is its own worst enemy, appealing to the faithful while being ready and willing to deprive others of their rights.
So, for people who respect the freedoms of all and seek justice, the tea party is not the answer. I have found it consists of some very well-intentioned people who are very personable and friendly, but, unfortunately, they are just plain wrong. The world is a very complex place, and there is no "right" way to proceed. A way must be found to end these ceaseless "religious" wars. Compromise is necessary in order for people and nations to exist -- without compromise, there can be no viable solutions. It is one thing to think you are on the right path, but quite another to think it is the only path.
It is a very strange world Master Jack.
Mike Nunn
Hot Springs
Editorial on 07/27/2014