In 18 months of writing about Thomas Sowell, I’ve seen everything from “polite” dismissiveness to sheer savagery. In some cases, his followers defend him before they even know what the subject matter is. I’m even assailed on things we agree on, because you assume I’m out to discredit Sowell on everything.
Blind devotion is not a path to understanding anything — which does a colossal disservice to your purpose. And that behavior is a gross breach of the very principles you put him on a pedestal for.
Even on the issues in question — my objective is not to destroy his reputation. Quite the contrary. Believe it or not, my aim is to make Thomas Sowell the catalyst who could turn the tide. The ultimate irony is that your blind loyalty limits him — while my criticism could elevate him to heights your hero-worship ensures he’ll never go.
On a daily basis, this guy Tweets Thomas Sowell quotes — and the gushing of over-the-top praise follows. I wouldn’t mind so much if their actions even remotely reflected their claims. It’s a sign of the times that you could celebrate “follow the facts” and refuse to go anywhere near ’em.
Following facts going in the direction you desire doesn’t count — anybody can do that.
@Playalong6 didn’t wanna be just anybody — and ironically, didn’t play along. He realized that supporting Sowell requires the willingness to question him. Our exchange was a bit contentious at first, which makes his movement all the more impressive.
He didn’t rely on circular certitude so common today — where people tap dance around the issue so they never have to address it.
He asked questions and took the answers into account.
Imagine!
He did what Sowell didn’t — along with his army of apologists. If you only apply these principles when it’s in your interests — what would you call it?
- What is the issue?
- What is the evidence?
- What did Sowell say and why is he wrong?
In a following that seemingly lives to flood the internet with his words — just what would it take to get you to use those words?
Note: The post title is not literally true, as a few other Sowell supporters considered what I had to say and were willing to change their minds. But @Playalong6 is the only one I’ve ever had an actual conversation with that got into the details.
Almost 100% of his followers do nothing but question my motives, mock my site, and assault my character — then proudly post quotes of Sowell looking stately as he condemns the very thing they’re doing.
Thomas Sowell to Team of Rivals 