OPINION:
In my old days, I keep an account on Facebook to keep in touch with my family around the globe. It’s an easy way to see how their growing households are faring. At the same time, I receive postings of friends and friends of friends who are writing comments on every topic under the sun.
What prompts them to share their opinions or criticism on any given topic?
They comment on theology, thinking they are St. Thomas Aquinas, but have never been near any page of his “Summa Theologica.” As a published author of several works of theology, I am flabbergasted by their lack of knowledge in some of their comments on religion and theology.
They spout venom on politicians on both the left and the right, and I wonder whether most of them would pass the U.S. citizenship test. They claim expertise in philosophy without having read Plato, Aristotle or Jean-Paul Sartre. They draw scientific conclusions without having made observations, formed hypotheses, conducted experiments or analyzed data — all required in the scientific method.
They keep sharing their views with a circle of other know-nothings, patting one another on the back for their great insights. To understand this, look up the definition of narcissism.
My advice to them: Before you talk, think for a while, do some research and then let your comments rest for a few days before you post them.
I feel sorry for these “experts.” The world is not waiting for their opinion, and when they do say something, the world is not better for it.
JOZEF GOETHALS
Baltimore, Maryland
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