GUIDELINES FOR DISCUSSION

I would appreciate if all dialogue on this blog proceeds in a considered and rigorous manner. The main components consist of: respect which means accepting that we all have our own world views and biases which need to be challenged but in a clear, fair and polite way; listening which is the most critical component as we do so little of it today and way too much talking, in other words, reflect upon what another is trying to articulate and understand it as best you can before responding; be passionate in discussion but not emotional, care about your views but don't personalise the individual or the discussion. I want to raise the tempo of discussion to a higher level not to recede to the babble of conversation that is accepted as normal discourse in the modern world. This should be a learning process for all. Debate is good, arguing and trying to shout down or wave our egos at each other is not needed or wanted.
Thanks.