Mark
Firstly, the opinion that forestry is supported by science whereas conservation is emotional is thin on fact and thick on rhetoric. Secondly, Richard Flanagan is a writer of fiction and, by extension, can only offer fictitious opinions. Thirdly, medical practitioners (Doctors for Forests) operate outside their discipline and have nothing more than an ill-considered opinion. All are easy handles for people who choose not to think for themselves and this is the political intent.
There are two quotations concerning opinions with which I could begin this article. One is rather common in all senses of the word while the other is emblazoned on one of my t-shirts. I choose the t-shirt:
“The only thing that I know is that I do not know anything.” – Socrates
Socrates opined this self aware reflection after questioning many figures of authority as to their understanding of their own craft. For example, a military commander claimed he taught his troops courage and Socrates questioned the commander on his knowledge of courage and its elements. The commander could only display his lack of knowledge.
As the forestry debate has raged I have observed many claiming almost divine knowledge and the ridiculing of others on the other side of the debate. This has manifested itself in a number of ways but I will limit my observations to three often repeated instances.
Firstly, the opinion that forestry is supported by science whereas conservation is emotional is thin on fact and thick on rhetoric. Secondly, Richard Flanagan is a writer of fiction and, by extension, can only offer fictitious opinions. Thirdly, medical practitioners (Doctors for Forests) operate outside their discipline and have nothing more than an ill-considered opinion. All are easy handles for people who choose not to think for themselves and this is the political intent.
My opinion is not well considered as I recognize my examples only reflect one side of the forestry debate. If asked, most people would claim their opinions are well-considered and born of experience and knowledge. A touch of self awareness would benefit most.
Society has developed all manner of laws and processes to judge opinion. Natural justice can be delivered through courts, tribunals and other forms of arbitration. People look to these authorities to provide independence of opinion, thought and judgment. Where natural justice is denied the disadvantaged party will complain. I believe all sides would agree in a common opinion that the Lennon government has been poor on many processes across a range of portfolios.
Like it or not that is my opinion.
