I saw this article by Nathan J. Robinson on Current Affairs and wanted to share. I do agree with the idea that the twitter format discourages deep conversation and debate. Lemmy is in general much better in this regard, but even still it is affected by the wider internet culture of our time, and a proper debate culture takes effort.
Even on Lemmy I frequently see more nuanced takes being shut down by quick, snarky comments pushing the conversation into absolutes. And yes, a democratic society absolutely requires healthy discussion of difficult issues, not just outrage.
Its always been somewhat of an issue, but more recently the shut down has also been facilitated by the platforms, as they have an agenda, are concerned by legal issues or straight up want to flex authority.
I personally feel good debate is better in the real world, chat with people and open your mind. Its always a good way to get people practising their critical thinking skills. You can always start the questions…is big tech good or bad? what could be the consequences of letting your device think for you?
IMO verbal debate is a poor substitute for writing, where you can take more time to consider what is being said and look up or cite information. Anonymity also helps a lot in various ways, when in person social considerations normally trump the interest of crafting good argument. Also personally something about speaking and interpreting speech makes it harder to think.