Document Type
Introductory Essay
Theme
Some Thoughts on the Nature of Controversy
Abstract
In contemporary societies that value speedy, efficient, and effective solutions to problems, ordinary citizens are prone to view controversy as a waste of time or even as an obstacle to achieving their chosen goals. In this sense, controversy is taken as something to be avoided or something that must be overcome in the pursuit of the “good life.” Thus, it is not surprising that common reactions to controversy include a refusal to acknowledge that a particular issue is controversial (a partisan defensive response), a general retreat from engagement (a response due to fear of escalation), a sense of resignation that the issue can't be solved (an apathetic response), or an impatient demand for remediation (a "fix it" response).
Genre/Form
articles
Recommended Citation
Sheppard, Shelby
(2006)
"The Merits of Controversy,"
Journal of Educational Controversy: Vol. 1:
No.
1, Article 3.
Available at:
https://cedar.wwu.edu/jec/vol1/iss1/3
Subjects - Topical (LCSH)
Debates and debating--United States; Academic disputations--United States
Geographic Coverage
United States
Language
English
Format
application/pdf
Type
Text