From David Frum. (edited)
In any conflict between extremists and non-extremists, the non-extremists start with one serious disadvantage. They tend to be conflict-averse.
Moderate-minded people tend naturally to be people of moderate temperament. When they encounter rage, hate, and paranoia, they flinch.
Extremists, on the other hand, delight in conflict.
Simply by being louder and nastier, they bully the non-extremists into silence, acquiescence, or exit.
What America needs now are moderate-minded people who are also tough-minded - who won't be shrieked down and who won't be intimidated.
Civility cannot mean: you yell, I yield.
It's not enough to have greater wisdom and greater tolerance if you don't also muster courage, endurance, and the will to win.
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