TIF: where politics is headed

A lot of this chapter was kinda boring to me (sorry to anyone who liked it!). I also had trouble understanding some of the main points. However, I took away one key thing from the chapter: the TIF method of discussion is where politics is headed (and in some cases it’s already there). A lot of the ways in which we can understand opinions that conflict with our own is by sitting down and having a thought-provoking conversation with the opposer. This only works unless a few rules are followed, such would be: 1. listening to the other person while they are talking, and allowing them the right to speak about what they believe 2. talking to each other in a calm way so that a fist fight doesn’t break out and 3. being open minded to things the opposer (or other people) say. If a group of discussers follows these GENERAL, basic rules, everyone will have a chance to have their voice heard–which is important in a GROUP discussion.

I think this is why TIF was so successful at Temple. The students and faculty wanted to find a way to allow others (who want to) to speak their mind on certain issues. It became even more successful when the issues directly affected them and their campus. Having an open public forum allows for lots of people to come and feel comfortable speaking their mind. Adding a moderator and a panel encourages organization…so people aren’t just yelling at each other. These were all ways in which TIF was successful.

This is why I feel TIF’s basic model is where politics is headed. Many people feel very strong towards one side of an issue, while others STRONGLY disagree. What’s the right way to let that all out without killing each other? Public debate and discussion.

It all made sense. I guess it was just another way of looking at rhetoric and democracy. And as an after thought, I like this way because it focuses on how rhetoric and democracy can play a part in our lives…even on the local level. No need for bells, whistles, thousands of people, and big cities. We Pennsylvania folk can join the discussion too. And that’s a pleasing thought.

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