"Public Discourse examines differing insights that shape our public engagement with one another" (100). In order to define ourselves we often have to compare our insights to others insights in order to understand our own beliefs. For example, in order to define the color white we can compare that color to the color black or any other color. If someone were to ask you what the color white is? How would you describe it without using an example of an object? The only way to define white is to compare the shade of white to other colors. Thus, just like our beliefs we compare and shape our own beliefs through the comparison of others beliefs. The value of pro-choice versus pro-life are defined and created through the knowledge and understanding within the comparison of each side. It is important to recognize and navigate through the differences and infinite amount of beliefs that reside in society. Hence, understanding the wide variety of beliefs in society can build a more respectful society and one that is more open minded.
In addition, the book discusses how the public discourse assumes that the public arena is a sacred space and a space that is honored and valued (109). However, is this a realistic application that can be applied to real society. I would disagree and say that the American justice system does not always allow for people to be able to speak freely and openly about their beliefs. Yes, they're laws that are in places such as freedom of speech, but many times how these laws are applied dishonors the values of some people. Then, a lot of times people are either scared to speak their mind or are torn apart socially for what they believe. Thus, the public arena doesn't carry out a space that is honored or valued and people can't speak about their true beliefs without fear of judgments.
In all, it is important to recognize how many different narratives exist and that no matter how crazy or out of the ordinary a belief seems we should always remember to look at the whole picture. Such as why does this person believe this? How does their belief relate to all other beliefs? Many questions should arise in order to gain a broader understanding of everyone narrative and it is important to always be respectful of other narratives to endorse a respectful public arena.
You brought up a very important point about how people are usually bashed by others online when they simply state their opinion. I have seen that happen too many times on the internet and it really takes away from a great opportunity that is presented to us to learn from others in the public arena. If you begin to diminish the public arena then, like you said, people are less likely to speak up and a lot of communication is lost and the chance to learn through our differences is lost as well.
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