Bill: You and I often disagree and sometimes agree on issues.  This is one of the true joys of living in a democracy.  We don't "have to" agree with each other or anyone else (including those "in authority").  So long as we don't violate laws, we're free to express our views without anyone's approval or prior censorship.  I don't think you or I would either one fare too well in a dictatorship.  

I appreciate you expressing your views in a very open, civil fashion and considering the views of others  with respect.  

We're a pluralistic society and, ideally, are tolerant of differing views.  However, today we are far, far from that state of tolerance.  We're seeing "discussions" of significant social, economic and political issues reduced to the "verbal brawl between two drunks in a tavern" level.  I'm 73 and never, nerver imagined that candidates for the nomination for the Presidency would be exchanging insults about their "physical manliness" or belittling each other's wives.