Good Partisan, Bad Defense?

I absolutely chafe when I come into contact with a partisan, and I will not vote for someone of either party who actively ignore rational counter-arguments. This is also why many partisans despise the so-called wishy-washness of moderates as they view us as not having any principles to stand upon.

Partisans stand for principles which they have convinced themselves of being true. Moderates stand for principles based on pragmatism - the knowledge that there are more than two sides of an issue, and compromise is generally in the best interests of most than all-out total victory by D's and R's.

To broaden the scope, I also resist debating folks who believe they are sent by God to convince me with their superior (and God-given) intellect that I'm wrong and they are right. I hold certain beliefs and certain opinions - some I hold to steadfastly, others I'm willing to reconsider. Yet, no matter where I stand on an issue, I do my best to respect another's opinion. I will not consider changing my mind if the other is not willing to do the same.

Our country, our Church, and our lives would be much healthier if folks laid everything out on the table and debated in an honest and respectful way.

[via Moral Contradictions, emphasis mine]