The program for Friday February 28,  included viewing Julia Dahr’s TED Talk on the sad state of our political environment where attacks and belittling comments dominate the discussion vs true debate. True debate is valuable and consists of both a pro and con perspective, where reaching common ground is used to possibly change opinion.

Debate skills seek common ground instead of extreme illustrations and absurd scenarios. Often finding the least personal version of the issue without a personal attack will allow a person to consider a different view or belief. In many cases if we engage in true debate a change of opinion may take place.

Rotarians were asked to consider a time when we changed our mind about and issue, opinion or belief. Some thoughts included:

• Homelessness is not just lazy people, but often mental illness
• Climate Change is real but may not be at the typing point
• Kids should marry first then live together, perhaps more tolerant regarding living together first
•  Awareness of environment not that critical, perhaps very critical

The discussion time was very short, but the concept of debating was valuable to the group.