[indigogo]

Hi All,

I posted this in the "911" thread, but thought I'd start a new one here for feedback on the topic of political discussion.

Just casting my vote for allowing political discourse and debate on BT2. NOT being allowed to discuss politics on BT1 was just as stressful to me as reading political posts is to others. I could never figure out why religion was a sanctioned topic but not politics. For some, politics is their religion!

As a Parkinson's political advocate, debate in this area is necessary for our health and well being, whether it be stem cells, prescription drug policy, or mental health legislation. It is ESSENTIAL.

If the thread is clearly labeled "political" then can't people who don't want to read steer clear? Kind of like turning the channel if something offensive comes on.

cheers!
Carey

"Never doubt that a small, group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world. Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has." ~ Margaret Mead

[Jomar]

I think both topics of religion & politics were discouraged for the most part , since they are very passionate subjects for many.

A separate forum topic space for it is a good idea.

It isn't really forum feedback it is a topic -
perhaps move it to the Chit Chat ?

[indigogo]

I'm thinking that the general topic of whether or not people want political discussion at BT2 is one for "Forum Feedback," but that the political discussion platform itself would be under "Chit Chat."

My memory seems to say that religion was specifically authorized as a topic under the BT1 TOS, but I am willing to be proven wrong!

Carey

[indigogo]

I think there should be a place under "General Subjects" - a whole category like "Sanctuary for Spiritual Support." Only it would be called "Sanctuary for Spirited Political Discourse."

Carey

[Chemar]

Originally Posted by indigogo

I think there should be a place under "General Subjects" - a whole category like "Sanctuary for Spiritual Support." Only it would be called "Sanctuary for Spirited Political Discourse."

Carey

[Thelma]

I wonder if you all realize that this forum has no set rules or regulations that you are required to apply to your postings.

This is not Braintalk and as such none of the rules apply here as yet.

So why discuss your question here at all

[paula_w]

Originally Posted by Thelma

I wonder if you all realize that this forum has no set rules or regulations that you are required to apply to your postings.

This is not Braintalk and as such none of the rules apply here as yet.

So why discuss your question here at all

To put it bluntly, if you are not of a certain political slant or just want to ask questions, you are insulted out or afraid to post at all. To be successful both sides have to listen, not just accuse and blame. You have to listen to the people who do not agree with you. YOu have to understand that people come in with different levels of information. You have to be fair.

Otherwise, it just becomes a political war of words, not a discourse, which I agree can be found outside of a medical forum.

Paula

[indigogo]

I thought about that, Thelma. I, or anyone can post what we like - but there is such disagreement on this subject that I thought that it was good to get people's opinions. "Responsible" anarchy instead of just anarchy!

BT2 was top-down. BT1 is more home-grown. But I think that, as in any community, process is important. We should be responsible to our community. Democracy in action!

Besides, only the Administrator can provide the appropriate place. We should demonstrate the need.

Carey

Since everything we do in life is political - how much you pay for a loaf of bread, gas, meds, which meds are available, insurance costs, education standards, pay rates, taxes etc etc - it seems only right that one should discuss these issues. Politics aren't just about explosions and war, remember. Should be interesting to see it all from the brain talk point of view, too.

*BUT, it's got to be in a clearly-marked bomb-proof container.* i.e. a separate forum within the general area. Actually, it's an easy matter to add new sections, so a "Life Politics" section should work fine.

Same goes for "Religion" too. Personally I am not religious (I don't mean not spritual, you understand), I'd like to see another individual forum for that. Trouble with BT1's policy regarding religion is that with no platform, religion crept in everywhere and bled all over the carpet.

I think Chit Chat could be for those recipe/lifestyle/other matters that aren't obviously "medical" but can be very useful and supportive.

I vote yes, good idea Indigogo (fun username...)
all the best

Oh yes, forgot to point out that the internet is international, so US citizens will have to sit through other nationalities' issues too.

[BobbyB]

yes but with it's own room