Controversy

[Michael]

We seem to have a bit of controversy about controversy. One of our
Rotary inheritances is that speakers should avoid controversial
topics. There has also been concern about the level of advocacy some
members have presented during the announcement period.

My own feeling is that we should welcome speakers on current issues
facing the town or the world. Our program committee should try to
find representatives of different positions on such issues. I would
be glad to have candidates for public office address the Club and take
our questions. It is true that I learn most from those who have
positions different from mine. Even Republicans.

What do you think?

Michael

[Hubbard Smith]

First, what's a controversial topic?  Abortion?  Definitely.  One religion over another?  Yes.  But then there are topics which can have strongly opposing viewpoints but which, in my opinon, can be openly talked about/debated, e.g. casino gambling, a political contest.  The goal there would be to have a balanced and rational discussion, ideally with all sides represented at the same meeting--but that's not practical given the limited amount of time we provide each week, so we perhaps have to settle for something like consecutive weeks.  Those would be controlled by the Program Committee. 

     I think it's another matter for some member to stand up during Announcements and proclaim his/her views on some sensitive topic without having been asked to do so and without providing a balanced argument.  (And anyway, Announcements should be limited to 30 seconds and should be limited to who, what, where and when.  And the President should be encouraged to cut off an inappropriate speech or to comment at its end that it was inappropriate.  It's OK to ruffle a few feathers.)      ----Hub

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From: future-of-the...@googlegroups.com on behalf of Michael
Sent: Tue 11/3/2009 4:47 PM
To: Future of The Amherst Club
Subject: Controversy

[Roger Webb]

I'm all for sometimes having controversial speakers. Better still if we can
hear both sides of an issue, which given the relatively short time available
would generally mean having opposing speakers on different dates (hopefully
not too far apart).

Roger

[Arthur Kinney]

Dear All,

I would prefer social issues (in keeping with our endowment and
fundraising) and cultural issues rather than political candidates.

Arthur