A couple of comments in retrospect on yesterday’s bloggingheads with Conor Friedersdorf:
First, it was probably a mistake to talk about a book neither of us have read.
Second, I should really learn to say “right” less. Particularly when I’m not. Right, that is.
But I do always enjoy talking to Conor, and I thank him for having me on his show (whatever that word means on the internet).
Benjamin Nagle says: All rights considered, I still very much enjoyed the discussion. It has only been a couple months since I started to read Daniel Larison, and based upon his arguments, I also felt the need to pick up some works by George Kenon. Around the Cragged Hill contained some, at least from my perspective, provocative ideas. You mentioned one of them (decentralizing into several regional republics of a more humane scale). What did you think of his proposal regarding a counncil of elders? Would the fact that they had been appointed by the states result in their proposals being taken seriously. I have often wondered how we might inject the long view into our election cycle oriented politics.
Although, as you said, comments do not necessarily signify much of anything–you might as well know that there is support for the discussion taking place on this site. So, keep up the good work
Noah, I’d ask to you: Manufactured controversy for what purpose? The Church has zero to be gained by bringing this up, correct? I can tell you that at our parish, there were several overt Obama supporters who suddenly didn’t show up at Mass following the reading of the bishop’s letter on this matter.
(For what it’s worth, the entire plan should be voided as unconstitutional anyway. This debate tends to accept the notion that it is acceptable as a premise, even though I would argue it is not.)
Peace be with you.
John Haas says: Is Friedersdorf drinking out of a jar?
“First, it was probably a mistake to talk about a book neither of us have read”
There is actually a book entitled *How to Talk About Books You Haven’t Read.* (Naturally, I haven’t read it.)