Grown-up discussions

What exactly are polemics? And why was this site created?

Arguments aren’t the problem. 

How we argue is.

The word polemics comes from the Greek for “warlike” — serious, contentious argument about beliefs and opinions. Arguments like that are everywhere today — especially on social media.  But too often they turn sour: the subject is lost, and the exchange becomes abuse.

I love discussion — on almost any subject. What I don’t love are trolls, spam, and a screen full of adverts. Over the years I’ve grown tired of the noise and wanted something better. Not to “opt out” of conversation, but to create a space where it can be done differently.

This is a space for people willing to argue strongly and listen carefully, but who will avoid the name-calling and tantrums of the playground.

So: welcome!  Explore, contribute, challenge — and above all enjoy the conversations.

I am indebted to Colin Robinson for invaluable help during the development of this website and for much else.  He is an endless source of both knowledge and wisdom, and has no hesitation in sharing both. Conversations with him are wide-ranging and deep, but usually humourous and good-natured and usually leave me mentally exhausted but exhilarated, an excellent result which led me to calling him ‘an energy vampire’. He will get the reference!