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LETTER TO THE EDITOR: Preaching to the choir is not engaging in dialogue
Letters to the Editor | 4/8/08
Posted online at 2:55 AM EST on 4/8/08
To the Editor:
Since when is talking to yourself considered "engaging in dialogue"? Last week, the newly formed Students for Justice in Palestine held an event on "the right of return ("New Palestinian club hosts first event," April 1 issue)." The event featured two speakers, one who supported the right of return and another who also supported the right of return. Unfortunately, the Justice incorrectly asserted that Students for Justice in Palestine "reach[ed] one of its goals: engaging in dialogue."
According to Merriam-Webster, a dialogue means "an exchange of ideas and opinions." However, no exchange of ideas occurs when both parties agree. Similarly, a dialogue can also mean "a discussion between representatives of parties to a conflict that is aimed at resolution." However, the juxtaposition of an Israeli and a Palestinian does not mean that either represents each side of the conflict.
Instead of commending the group for "engaging in dialogue," the paper should have commended it for engaging in monologue, "a long speech monopolizing conversation." As the Justice's article was published on April 1, it should have been placed in the April Fools' section.
-Frank Golub '10
Since when is talking to yourself considered "engaging in dialogue"? Last week, the newly formed Students for Justice in Palestine held an event on "the right of return ("New Palestinian club hosts first event," April 1 issue)." The event featured two speakers, one who supported the right of return and another who also supported the right of return. Unfortunately, the Justice incorrectly asserted that Students for Justice in Palestine "reach[ed] one of its goals: engaging in dialogue."
According to Merriam-Webster, a dialogue means "an exchange of ideas and opinions." However, no exchange of ideas occurs when both parties agree. Similarly, a dialogue can also mean "a discussion between representatives of parties to a conflict that is aimed at resolution." However, the juxtaposition of an Israeli and a Palestinian does not mean that either represents each side of the conflict.
Instead of commending the group for "engaging in dialogue," the paper should have commended it for engaging in monologue, "a long speech monopolizing conversation." As the Justice's article was published on April 1, it should have been placed in the April Fools' section.
-Frank Golub '10
Viewing Comments 1 - 1 of 1
Ian Zwerling
posted 4/10/08 @ 11:06 AM EST
Frank, good one. There is no room in an institution of learning for the end of the socratic dialogue, unless you're attending a university in Iran or Syria. (Continued…)
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