How to silence the opposition without really trying
Like many people, I’m a fan of Seth Godin’s writings.
Few people know how to craft a message as well as he does.
For example, see this short post.
On the face of it, it seems like little more than a powerful insight. And yet, intentional or not, it serves another purpose altogether. Namely, it serves to silence anyone with the gall to ask questions.
When someone preaches a message of hope, who dares to ask for specifics? Who dares to ask if the message is realistic or even desirable? Cynics. That’s who. And who wants to be labeled a cynic?
Of course it is just as plausible to call these people realists. Or maybe concerned citizens. But those labels don’t serve to shame others into silence. So cynics they are. And probably despicable ones at that.
As I said, it’s a brilliant message. And unfortunately, it works because in today’s social climate it’s too easy to disparage critical thinking.
Posted on Thursday, February 21, 2008 at 04:40 PM
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