Political Wolfsbane

I find that three simple words work to devastate virtually all radical political arguments. First, "Why?" When they tell you, "Prove it."

Most people's heads simply spin and they sputter and wander off. Through bitter experience I have learned that most have almost zero understanding of politics and never reasoned anything out at all, they just spouted off with or repeated whatever sounded like a good idea at the time. If actually asked to support their assertions, they have nothing. If they have any grace, they'll admit it.

A minority will take up the challenge, however, either because they actually know a little something about the subject matter or because they feel that their pride is on the line. This is when you spring the trap, and point out things like:

FBI figures show just 358 of the 8,775 murders by firearm in 2010 involved rifles of any type. By comparison, 745 people were beaten to death with only hands that year, but no one has called for outlawing fists.

Or perhaps ask why 12 deaths by firearm is a horrible event requiring drastic action, but 14 deaths by truck is a nonevent, unworthy of consideration.

At the very least, bringing facts, data, and logic into play will improve a political process dominated by juvenile tribalism and manipulative soundbites.