As a persuasive technique, mockery is both effective and dangerous for the same reason: it makes a moderate orientation to something uncomfortable. See, if the mockery is correct, then the thing is so wrong that it’s actually funny, and we laugh to indicate our increased opposition. But if the mockery is unfair or incorrect, then we become angry at the manipulation, and our opposition diminishes or reverses.
Thus, mockery depends upon polarization, which is the exact opposite of peacemaking. And once something has been mocked, it is very difficult to have a real discussion of it because real discussion presupposes the possibility of conversion. And no one wants to be a convert to absurdity.
This is why it is better to say that our opponents are wrong rather than ridiculous. It avoids making it too hard for them to convert to our way of thinking, but it also makes it easier for us should we ever need to admit our own mistakes. In all things, charity.
No comments:
Post a Comment