Words to "Call Out"

That gentleman who pleads with you from the TV set and looks like your favorite uncle, may be a well-dressed balloon filled with hot air.

It may be unnecessary to warn our friends about the aging politicians or rising TV commentators that appear on cable news shows.  They have cultivated the appearance of sincerity, and they have a way with words. 

However, I feel obliged to “call out” a host of commentators and the script they are following. They say our President is “weak” and “incompetent.” 

As used, this is simple slander.  They appeal to our prejudices and fail to provide any helpful analysis.

On the other hand, these may actually be compliments, if you consider what they really mean. 

“Weak,” in the present partisan political context means well informed, thoughtful and cautious.  “Weak” leaders balance conflicting objectives, rate the quality of information, understand unintended circumstances.  They don’t blow things up.  They are good at NOT making a bad situation worse. 

That manikin on the screen probably knows this, but it doesn’t serve his ambition—or he doesn’t know this, and God help us if he gains power. 

You want to test Putin’s ability to escalate.  More dead children and homeless refuges?  More bombed out neighborhoods?  Tactical nukes?  You want a “strong” leader? 

The opposite of “weak” is “reckless.”   Under a certain age, children with hammers break things.  So will adults of sufficient ambition, or ignorance.

And what about “incompetent.”  I think that means, “he see things differently than I do.”  (Or it could mean I’m incapable to understanding anyone else’s point of view.)

Intelligent people differ as to how they see the world. Values differ. Sources of information differ. Our frameworks of time and criteria for success differ. In civil conversation one says: “While I respect your opinion, I have come to a different understanding of the problem and disagree with the position that you are taking. And here’s why.”

Or you can say, “You’re incompetent.”   That, like calling someone “weak.,” doesn’t add much to the conversation.  And indicates that you aren’t much of an expert.