credit. One of those assemblies was a
significant personal experience.
The concept was simple: An informal debate. Two
speakers. Each would describe and support one side of the political spectrum.
Then each would have one opportunity to rebut the other's position. The guests
were important, highly regarded thinkers and writers in the field. James L.
Buckley represented the conservative view and Max Lerner, the liberal. These men were highly intelligent, well informed, articulate and great
communicators. I felt fortunate, even honored, to listen to them outline the
fundamental tenets of each position and compare and contrast them. For a young
man trying to formulate a personal political point of view, this was a
wonderful opportunity.
I left the assembly hall
convinced of one thing and curious about another.
It was crystal clear where my personal life view fit in the political spectrum. I felt a deep sense of relief, as I had been experiencing some turmoil regarding the subject. My curiosity was piqued, however, by the observation that I also preferred the personal style of the gentleman who had represented the political point of view with which I was more comfortable. While both were stylishly dressed, well groomed, articulate and dignified, there were definitely subtle differences. And my preferences regarding points of style, without question, leaned in the same direction as my preferences regarding political points of view. This became, and still is, a chicken/egg question for me. In the political arena, are we first/most attracted to an individual's views or style?
Several years go, a friend asked me, "Who are you more likely to trust, a guy in a business suit or a guy in tie-dye?" That's an easy one ...
