Opinion vs. facts vs. opinion

In response to Thomas Peacock’s letter (Dec. 15) regarding homosexuals in the military, he cites “several glaring mistakes.” However, his analysis leaves much to be desired.

The observation has been made on several occasions that military culture is a microcosm of American society. The military poll he refers to had a much higher percentage of turnout than the average Gallup poll – along the lines of 3.8 percent to roughly .003 percent, yet the former is invalid? Plus, that poll showed a response of 115,000 service members out of 3 million service members. The average Gallup Poll usually questions about 1,000 adults out of 300 million Americans.

In your own words, Mr. Peacock, facts trump opinion every time.

I also note another thing. If your statement was correct, might I ask exactly what these two surveys are based on? Opinion. You cannot have both sides of the issue in deriding opinion by claiming fact to be more reputable, when you quote opinion surveys to begin with. Either opinion is good or bad, but please spare us by claiming fact trumps opinion and then using opinion surveys to support your contention, as that is a major contradiction and it is hypocritical.

Rick Findley

Spokane