My response just now to someone in the Degrowth group who commented to the effect that we all have the right to speak sarcastically and rudely to people, in the name of having a productive sharing of ideas:
I understand the definition of “civil” as in civic. In this context here on this thread, I am using another common definition of civil, as in being basic polite and not rude to people.
I understand how the circumstances in the world can induce bitterness and sarcasm in any of us. But it’s best to not use it on each other. Not only for the reason of basic human decency, but also for the very pragmatic reason that it stifles the sharing of ideas. If people think they’re going to get their heads bitten off, fewer and fewer people are willing to share a thought.
I have witnessed this pattern in more groups than I can count, as I have co-adminned many groups and simply been a very active participant in many more.
When I start to write a comment to an internet stranger and realize my comment sounds harsh, I try to pretend I’m talking to a friend or sister. And I edit accordingly.
I strive to convey the same substance, but with the tone and wording that I would use on somebody I know and love. It takes a little extra effort but it seems to be working well so far.
Degrowth is not a cult. But we are a grassroots movement, a kind of in-group, and people need to be able to have civilized discussions with one another. If we can’t even talk with each other, there’s not much hope for us to communicate with “civilians.”
•It’s possible to express anger politely. It’s possible to express despair without taking it out on others.
•It’s possible to express intellectual disagreement without being rude or condescending.
•Same with expressing skepticism.
We are dealing with a lot of deep-seated emotions in this movement and in related movements. Our challenge is to avoid taking it out on each other as we move forward.