Cartoon by Adriane Saunders
An open-ended discussion is impossible. All discussions require parameters. Just to stay “on topic” is a parameter.
More pertinent are the filters of participants: self-imposed limitations of personal beliefs. Preconceptions, expectations, emotional or intellectual investment in right or wrong or shades of gray, all color conversation.That any discussion ever bears fruit is remarkable, considering all the baggage and distractions we all bring to every discussion.
Open-ended discussion is an oxymoron. But, so what? Note those contradictions to open communication, the “you on one side, me on the other.” Revel in the absurdities..
