We swim in an ocean of distortions and deceptions, and the truth seems impotent to sustain us. You trust the power of truth but the “truth” of power proves stronger—that iron fist in a velvet glove of statistics, research results, pronouncements by undisputed authorities, of appeals to tradition or common sense. The only sensible thing seems to return in kind, to define your own truth and assert it in the face of your opponents with the help of intimidation, propaganda, and manipulation. When opinions clash, weapons must ultimately decide because arguments are impotent.
