I’ve thought about starting a blog several times in the last few years, but never did since there are some dangers. One is that I do want to run for public office eventually and my job is fairly public (Legislative Director at Texas Right to Life) considering the subjects I want to discuss here (philosophy, theology, government, and media) it will be very easy to use my words out of (or even in) context as a means of attack on my job, my faith, or the cause I am deeply dedicated to.
However, my goals in starting this blog are:
- to force myself to add some exactness to my thoughts, opinions, and questions;
- to begin genuine dialogue and gain insight from others about some of the topics I care most about; and
- to encourage others to think more deeply and feel comfortable honestly discussing those thoughts.
With these goals in mind, it seems inappropriate for me to give in to the possible abuses that may arise by me putting my questions, opinions, and mental struggles out here.
Another danger I’ve been worried about is the temptation to only put up posts that are polished, perfect, and conclusive. I want to deliberately avoid this. With great difficulty I have learned that the questions I care most about don’t have answers that can be held with mathematical certainty or a tone of imperiousness. In fact, the biggest goal (and the reason I’m committed to philosophy) most of the time is just simply to find the right question, not the final and ultimate solution. All that to say: I want to be dialectic and not dogmatic here (and everywhere else in life for that matter).
I’m not making any promises about the longevity of this blog, but let’s give it a try.
as always, I admire your intellectual honesty. Can't wait for the conversations that we'll see here.
ReplyDeleteWe are watching and waiting for the great discussions. Fear not, God is with you. His right hand is upon you, and He will give you peace.
ReplyDeleteExcellent reasons for starting a blog.
ReplyDeleteValid concerns for being hesitant to post.
"Dialectic, not dogmatic" is something I hope to give consideration before any future posts on my own blog as well, though hopefully not to the point of shying away from the proclamation of any of the clear truths of the Scriptures.