Re: Animosity is a Curious Animal Indeed
 

Morganscorpion

Was it the Gerald Yorke collection by any chance? (They also have one of the three original copies of the Waite/Machen volume The House of the Hidden Light)

Mark S.

Re: Animosity is a Curious Animal Indeed
 

That was it!

Re: Animosity is a Curious Animal Indeed
 

On the subject of respectful conduct... I find the concept of respect somewhat problematic. For example, if I really had 100% respect for someone else's views, then it seems like my own views should therefore be identical to theirs. And if they aren't, then I should change my own views to bring them in line with theirs.

I guess what I am trying to say is that the very fact that I have differing and maybe even opposing views seems to indicate that I have less than total respect for the views of a person I disagree with.

This is a problem for me, and it doesn't necessarily mean I dislike or have contempt for the person I disagree with, but it is troubling. I acknowledge that I might be in the wrong, also.

Re: Animosity is a Curious Animal Indeed
 

I disagree with an intrepid sense of whole-hearted reservation. I have from the outset of my inception been inclined to be so insecure with my mindset as to offer the benefit of the doubt to the other side of my reason. Not to say that just anyone can sway my tower of illusory comprehension, but no doubt most all are allowed free reign to gnaw at the foundation of my beliefs.

In any event horizon, it should be clear that TLO should never stifle contrary opinions, as I myself endeavor in without end. I am not certain how to best define the boundaries of this mythological awareness called respect, other than an approach that should not stifle response by instigating negative emotional reactions.

Re: Animosity is a Curious Animal Indeed
 

Me. too.

Re: Animosity is a Curious Animal Indeed
 

I, also.

And I think is is possible to respect another person even if I don't agree with their point of view, as long as they present themselves and their arguments in a civil fashion and accord me the same level of respect. If someone tries to shove something down my throat and will brook no rebuttal, then I will not respect them, even if I agree with what they are saying.

I missed whatever events begat the necessity for this thread, but I will say this: on the whole, TLO is about the most civilized and convivial forum I have come across on the internet. The level of social discourse found on these boards is worlds above some others that I frequent, and for that I am grateful.

Re: Animosity is a Curious Animal Indeed
 

Were it not so, I would respect hardly anybody! :D

Re: Animosity is a Curious Animal Indeed
 

At the moment, I would define respect for another person as 'appreciation for what seems like a sincere desire to get at what is true.' I can have that kind of respect for a person even if I disagree with them.

For example, I don't believe that god exists, but I can respect a person who does if I think they believe it is true that god exists. If a person says "I don't know if god exists, but I believe because it makes me feel better," then I feel under no obligation to respect their belief. I would respect their honesty regarding their belief, though.

Re: Animosity is a Curious Animal Indeed
 

With regard to religious beliefs, a sincere desire to get at what is the nature of truth may be at least as significant as a sincere desire to get at what is true.

Re: Animosity is a Curious Animal Indeed
 

Odalisque,

Could you expand upon this point?

You are getting at something that troubles me. Namely, whether it is actually possible to get at the truth. Is it possible to make a true statement? Is the truth something that can only be suggested or hinted at? Does the truth always hide itself?

Even if there can only be a finger pointing to the moon, it seems to suggest that the moon exists somewhere beyond the finger.