I don't think fairness means that you give equal time to every point of view no matter how marginal. You weigh the sides, you do some truth-testing, you apply judgment to them.
Interpretation
Fairness involves evaluating the validity of different viewpoints rather than treating all opinions equally.
In this quote, Bill Keller emphasizes that true fairness requires discernment and critical thinking. It is not about giving equal weight to all perspectives but rather assessing their credibility and importance through truth-testing and careful judgment. This approach encourages a more nuanced understanding of complex issues rather than a simplistic, egalitarian stance that may undermine significant truths.
In practice
During a debate on social issues, one could use this quote to illustrate the importance of evaluating arguments critically.
I think of the need for more wisdom in the world, to deal with the knowledge that we have. At one time we had wisdom, but little knowledge. Now we have a great deal of knowledge, but do we have enough wisdom to deal with that knowledge?
I live in that solitude which is painful in youth, but delicious in the years of maturity.
Learning not to crumple before these uncertainties fuels my resolve to print myself upon the texture of each day fully rather than forever.
Our passions, when well exercised, have wisdom; they guide our thinking, our values, our survival.
Men who know themselves are no longer fools. They stand on the threshold of the door of Wisdom.
Sometimes surrender means giving up trying to understand and becoming comfortable with not knowing.
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