You have hit Zone sociology on the nose.

There's an icepack in the freezer for anyone who needs one. I have the other one on my head.

I have mentioned generational theory before. For anyone interested in Bill Strauss and Neil Howe's interpretation of 9-11 through the glass of generational theory, look here and here. The Turning characteristics in the first article provide a lot of grist.

It helps, IMO, to examine why we act the way we do, so when things get intense we can step back and recognize the people behind the arguments and flames. Is this theory likely? Why or why not? How would you interpret any of the characteristics of a Fourth Turning in the current climate? Daddy, are we there yet, or is it still just around the bend? Is it important to recognize the humanity of the people who we find irritating or exasperating?

It's true that I've been busy. We have all been busier running to keep up in the tumult. It's also true that there has been less conversation here and more verbal combat (speaking as someone who doesn't always share the majority opinion). Whereas before I was more willing to post off-the-cuff opinions and see where the discussion went, this past year or so I've wanted to make sure I had my homework all done first.

But this would mean talking to points about which I had already made up my mind. No dialog in that, either.

Thank you for reminding me that dialog rests not only in listening (as you have pointed out) but in speaking too.

Cheers--
Mary Anne