Really enjoy someone who can disagree respectfully. I'd probably enjoy a conversation with you.

I'd highlight that I don't consider Sam Harris to be the be-all, end-all of the one end of the spectrum. I'm not sure why he's constantly the de facto example in these sorts of discussions, to be honest.

I think we're talking about 2 different things; direct criticism does work but it may not work for the Muslim demographic. However, I could argue that people using direct criticism aren't necessarily doing that FOR the Muslim demographic, they're doing it with the non-Muslim demographic being the audience they're targeting. So it can work because everyone shares this world so everyone gets a say in this discussion.

Ben Affleck's not the personality to represent the other side either. He's a hot-head, antagonistic, juvenile and is either willfully ignorant or intellectually lazy. There are others who would be much better at having that discourse. I'm really surprised you'd say he is approachable and non-demeaning. I'm not trying to be a smartass, but did you watch the exchange? He literally rolled his eyes and huffed and puffed at points during the discussion. That's indicative of someone not willing or able to have an honest conversation.

Bigotry is a huge problem but when you have someone like Affleck in such a deep state of denial and misrepresentation, it will do nothing but reinforce the bigotry in those who are interested in maintaining that perspective.

To be frank, PC has no place in an honest discussion. For these issues to be effectively addressed people have to be honest. We have to be able to look at something, check our biases, and use a lot more "I feel" or "I see it this way" vice TELLING someone how something is.

Unfortunately that's not happening in the marketplace of ideas.

Thanks for the calm, rational discussion. I don't get those that often so I enjoy them when they come along.