Behind their own wall

In response to “Grow up. Lefties” and “New year, same story” (Jan. 6):

These two letters to the editor well illustrate the virtual impossibility of rationally dealing with the mentality of many Trump supporters and, indeed, people like Trump himself. Their only model for confronting disagreement is the contentious sports model in which “winning” is the only value. Any means to that end are justified. Seeking truth, understanding, facts and explanations is of no importance. The two aforementioned letters posit no data or reasoned arguments for their blanket defense of Trump’s words and actions. Like schoolyard bullies, they call names, deride, argue only ad hominem.

There is no point to try to reason with closed minds. Not only did they get the way they are because of closed minds, they fear openness, exploration and consideration. This is the closure which constitutes the real danger in a democratic society. This is the stifling, alienating wall behind which such people cower and rant in hatred and fear.

Peter Grossman

Spokane