P. J. O’Rourke: I Agree With Me
When was the last time a conservative talk show changed a mind?
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Arguing, in the sense of attempting to convince others, seems to have gone out of fashion with everyone. I’m reduced to arguing with the radio. The distaste for political argument certainly hasn’t made politics friendlier—or quieter, given the amount of shouting being done by people who think one thing at people who think the same thing.
But I believe I know why this shouting is popular. Today’s Americans are working harder than ever, trying to balance increasing personal, family, and career demands. We just don’t have time to make ourselves obnoxious. We need professional help.