The Golden Rule, Criticism, and Definitions.

[cosmik debris]

If a person avows that they treat others the way they wish to be treated, then they define their adversaries, aren't they saying that they wish to be defined by their adversaries?

If they criticize their adversaries, aren’t they saying that they wish to be criticized by their adversaries?

I tried this argument on the church that I live next door to. When they used their parking lot for some really loud and obnoxious activities I told the pastor that I would treat them the way they treated their neighbors—assuming that they were following the golden rule and WISHED to be treated like that. Their behavior improved immediately and they have shown consideration for their neighbors since that time.

Do any of you think this is a good way to deal with the animosity frequently exhibited in this forum?

[ayeshahaqqiqa]

1. That might just work

seeing as variations of the Golden Rule are found in most, if not all, the world's major religions, it must be something that many people from different cultures and times felt was important. I will remember this the next time I foray into R/T.

[cosmik debris]

2. Be sure you ask first

Not everyone here avows the golden rule, and some who say they do, don't really. But it should be exceptionally effective on fundy Christians (of which there are few here).