We have no reason to expect an honest and thorough conversation about the kind of cultural degeneracy that may have led a white 17-year-old to cross state lines to patrol and fire shots at those protesting the shooting of a Black man in front of his children. We have no reason to expect an introspective conversation about the messaging that led hundreds to riot and loot in Minneapolis based on false information.
Notwithstanding Democratic nominee Joe Biden’s speech last week, we should only expect deflection, denials and insults from conservative and progressive hardliners. Few will question their own tactics because publicly critiquing your tribe is considered treasonous. In this truth-deficient dialogue, facts and principles are inconveniences — unless they can be weaponized. Only the narrative seems to matter. Our pride and prejudices compel us to take sides and defend them, come hell or high water.
If one thing is clear about the American public discourse today, it’s that…
