We stand on tolerance

With little fanfare, the Ashland Daily Tidings started a new editorial column called “Case In Point,” that runs Mondays on this page. To date, complex topics such as the filibuster, Avian Flu and Intelligent Design have been explained, with varying degree of opinion expressed.

The stated goal of the column is to elevate editorial discussion toward greater tolerance of diverse points of view.

In particular, the columns are written to be thought-provoking and fact-based, while minimizing searing one-sided rhetoric that, though commonplace in our culture today, is akin to preaching to the choir. With “Case in Point,” we hope to find more room for common ground between our diverse readers.

Clearly, it will be easier said than done. Following our publication of a liberal and moderate position on Intelligent Design, we also published a “web only” conservative column on the topic. Letters decrying the “idiot” author of the column demanded censorship of this position. Most said space in the newspaper should not be wasted on this point of view, even though no newspaper space was utilized.

It’s ironic a forum that allows for three different points of view would incite people to such a vociferous reaction. One writer said a conservative with such views shouldn’t be allowed to work at the Tidings!

The Ashland Daily Tidings stands first for tolerance and inclusion of all readers. We appeal to any wishing to reclaim temperate public discourse in the hopes of finding common ground and mutual respect in a sea of name-calling, intolerance and fact-less accusations. We hope many others will join us in upholding this important ethic.