Crass approach isn’t right for nation

I remember being taught by my family that “If you can’t say something good about a person, then don’t say anything.” I recall hearing compliments being paid to certain individuals, such as, “I have never heard him say a bad word about anybody!” Today, apparently at least in some circles, that outlook on people is being considered foolish, old-fashioned and naive. We are being told, “We’ve got to stop being so nice, folks!” The idea seems to be that if you are in the mood to insult somebody, then go right ahead and scorch them with your fine hot verbal blasts!

Some politicians of an earlier generation, such as Sen. [J. William] Fulbright and Sen. [Dale] Bumpers, used to think that when engaging in political negotiations, to speak considerately, civilly and diplomatically, even toward those who were opposing you, was not only a better way of being a human being, but was also more likely to discover openings for working things through together. In today’s world of hostility and contempt, it seems to have become more important to stick it to somebody, especially to stick it to the dummies and incompetents who think differently from yourself! At one time, being polite, considerate, respectful and kind was a good thing, even a virtuous thing. In today’s brave new world, apparently civil and courteous speech has come to be regarded as contemptible political correctness, and a prospective leader is applauded as fresh, brave, virtuous and honest when he freely pops off with insults and putdowns.

How shall we become a great people if we endorse and reward crude, disrespectful, disparaging behaviors toward our fellow Americans and toward other peoples of the world? JERRY NICHOLS

Pea Ridge