RANT
There are folks in your life whom you love even though their political views are diametrically opposed to yours. Phil is one such, for me; we mostly avoid talking politics.
But Phil just posted to Facebook a photo of the (alleged) whistleblower, which is accompanied by a "Facebook keeps removing his name and photo so share if fast before it's gone." I asked him to take it down.
1/n
Phil hasn't responded yet (it's SuperBowl Sunday, after all; he likely is distracted) but one of his friends did, saying, "is this nazi germany?" and claiming, "Your statement is a violation of the first Amendment. Journalistic protection is a constitutional right." (Dude, you want to get in a 1A discussion with a professional journalist?!)
2/n
The main point in my lengthly reply was the importance of whistleblowers in any field (just imagine if someone with knowledge of the Boeing vulnerability had reported it) and why they are protected by law. (I'm loquacious, I know.)
Dude's response: "Liberals really are psychotic... Im not even going to read this rambling ass shit. My point stands"
3/n
This really pisses me off. By giving a full explanation of the issue, I'm psychotic?!
...Sorry, just needed to rant.
4/fin
@estherschindler my finding: people choose to be ignorant of facts with which they disagree (some of certain political persuasions more than others). In their eyes even listening to a different point of view is harmful. Had similar experience on FB and haven’t been on for over a year now.
@ACG2
My view is that if I don't listen to others, I can't understand them. If I can't understand them, I can't change their minds. And I must leave my mind open to change, too.
...but sometimes it's impossible.
@estherschindler @ACG2
I have a brother who thinks everything is a conspiracy. He is so wrapped up in it that even my conspiracy loving sister thinks he's over the edge. I love the guy but sometimes have to walk away before I slap him. He does not listen to anything that goes against his "Beliefs"
Oh, also Phil just responded, with a bunch of links to "see the name/photo has been reported elsewhere" (so it's okay?).
I reported it to Facebook as harassment. (Oddly, they don't have a category for "breaking the law.")
Not sure how this will play out.