Why I don't Facebook about politics (very often)

My good friend, and Bossier Press-Tribune Managing Editor, Sean Green wrote an editorial in the Monday edition about a political discussion he had with some of his friends on Facebook.

His friends were getting all wound up about the presidential race this year, and Sean's point was that the president (or Executive Branch) was but one prong of government and that it is short-sighted to think the presidency alone will dramatically change things — without also addressing Congress.

You can read his editorial here.

The funny thing about political discussions on Facebook is that they are rarely "discussions." Most political posts are more monologue than dialogue, and the ensuing comments rarely come from a place of friendly debate.

For example, I could post a status that reads, "I wonder how many Ron Paul supporters are only behind him because of his stance on legalizing marijuana?"

As you could imagine, a firestorm would ensue. Supporters would lament the smaller government conservatism of Rep. Paul, and that anyone who would even ask such a question is obviously a Communist.

On the other hand, Ron Paul opponents would offer additional reasons why he is "crazy, an isolationist and an all around weird guy."

The funny thing is, that my question did not state a position on the matter. No one really knows by my question if I am a supporter of Ron Paul or not.

Facebook, while good for many things, is not the best forum for informed and civil debate. People tend to post things there they would never say face-to-face. It can be a blessing and a curse at the same time.

So I shall refrain from political posts on Facebook, unless of course there is a really good photoshopped image of a candidate looking like the Joker... I'M KIDDING... or am I?

May the Blog Be With You.