From the file. Written for the paper dated August 1970. Opened in the public stacks July 14, 2026.
In an era where extremes seem to dominate the political landscape, the cost of certainty, particularly in the absence of a cohesive team jersey, raises urgent questions about the direction of our nation.
The summer of 1970 has brought us a cacophony of voices; on one side, we have the fervent left, demanding radical change and holding steadfast to the belief that the establishment is the enemy. On the other, the right rallies around the flag, championing traditional values and a return to what they consider a lost sense of order. In these polarized times, certainty often becomes a dangerous game, leading to the neglect of a critical procedure that none want to discuss: the need for dialogue.
The Left's Certainty: A Call for Revolution
On the left, certainty manifests as a call for immediate revolution. Young activists take to the streets, demanding an end to the Vietnam War, racial injustice, and economic inequality. Their certainty is palpable; they are convinced that their vision of a better society can only be achieved through drastic measures. While their passion is commendable, the single-minded focus can lead to alienation of those who might otherwise be allies. The revolution is not merely an abstract concept; it requires a coalition that can sustain itself through discussion and compromise, not just fervor.
“In the heat of activism, the art of conversation often gets drowned out by the drums of protest.”
Moreover, the left's approach often overlooks the nuances of the issues at hand. For example, while the cries for social justice resonate deeply, the complexities of economic reform demand a discourse that is inclusive rather than exclusive. A call for unity among those who share common goals is necessary; otherwise, the movement risks fracturing under the weight of its own certainty.
The Right's Certainty: A Return to Tradition
Conversely, the right finds its own certainty in a nostalgic yearning for a past that many believe was marked by stability and moral clarity. This desire often translates into a fierce resistance to change. The rhetoric surrounding law and order, for instance, appeals to those who feel threatened by the rapid social transformations occurring around them. Yet this unwavering certainty can also be perilous. It risks ignoring legitimate grievances that exist within society, reinforcing a status quo that, for many, is neither just nor equitable.
“Certainty without empathy creates an echo chamber where the voices of dissent are silenced.”
As we witness the rise of conservative movements, the danger lies in the potential for dogma to replace careful deliberation. The insistence on a singular narrative can stifle innovation and progress. As much as the left must recognize the value of tradition, the right must also embrace the possibility of change. It is imperative that we do not lose sight of the gray areas that define our shared humanity.
The Procedure Nobody Wants to Discuss: Dialogue
The absence of dialogue in favor of certainty on both sides exacerbates the divide. It is easy to chant slogans and wave flags, but the real challenge comes in the form of conversation. Dialogue is the procedure that no one seems to want to discuss, yet it is essential for moving forward. Only through open communication can we hope to bridge the chasm that separates us.
To advocate for dialogue is not to suggest a dilution of values but rather an invitation to engage with the complexities that define our debates. It is a call to listen as much as to speak, to question as much as to assert. The certainty that many cling to can often blind us to the reality that compromise is not a sign of weakness but a marker of strength and maturity.
Conclusion: A Call for Unity Amidst Division
As we navigate these tumultuous times, it is crucial to acknowledge that certainty, while comforting, can lead us astray if it is not tempered with a willingness to engage with differing perspectives. The cost of certainty becomes too steep when it results in division rather than unity. The challenge ahead is to foster an environment where dialogue can flourish, allowing us to build bridges rather than walls.
In this moment of political upheaval, let us not forget the importance of conversation. To forge a path forward, we must embrace the complexities of our society and allow the voices of all to be heard. Only then can we hope to find common ground amidst the clamor of certainty.
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