Mr Amerika Samoa exhibits the Ugly American attitude [1]
Friday, April 16, 2010 - 11:50. Updated on Monday, September 9, 2013 - 18:40.
Editor,
I must ask Mafi 'o Amerika Samoa to define "sensible solutions" for us (Tonga needs . . . 13 Apr 2010). By whose definition does he present himself the authority on public discourse?
What does he mean by, "What Tonga needs are compassionate souls and intriguing minds"? Those are clever words, but is he throwing a wool over my head?
Lack of Respect
Ridiculing competing viewpoints without logical reasoning conjures up a double negative argument that serves no purpose but an effortless chuckle. Should Mr. Amerika Samoa wishes to engage readers constructively in his argument, lobbing cheap-shot comments at an opposing viewpoint weakens such argument to the point of being an idle conversation.
Trying to discredit and embarrass Dr. Saia Kami and Company by boasting of his lack of intellectual credentials to amuse, does not impress anyone but the unlearned. Scolding one's elders in public to attract attention to himself, Mr. Amerika Samoa exhibits the Ugly American attitude that he detests: arbitrary critiquing without logic, and ignoring cultural protocols. We owe it to each other as Tongans to be respectful even in heated debates.
Suppressing Free Speech
Dr. Kami et al may have been too critical of PM Dr. Sevele's policies, but it is their right and privilege to express their disapproval of Government in a constructive way. Mr. Amerika Samoa wants readers to believe there's something sacred about the Tongan Government, which should not be criticized.
Thank you Mr. Amerika Samoa, but this reader can read both sides of a constructive argument and draw my own conclusions. Inquiring minds are thirsty for new ideas; suppressing lively debate is a barrier to free speech, and the free flow of information.
Sione Akemeihakau Mokofisi