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Theresa K wrote: If you have to read it for class, I would try to be detached and not get too worked up, but at the same time, make responding arguments for why you disagree with it and find flaws in its logic. posted 2/15/2010 at 3:36 PM

Carolyn D wrote: Some time I like to write all of my disparaging comments in the margins. That way I can respond to the authors but still make through the book without tearing my hair out. :) posted 2/16/2010 at 8:09 AM

Dawn E wrote: Record your true thoughts... then volunteer for a cause where you can put those thoughts into action! posted 2/16/2010 at 8:11 AM

Kate P wrote: I agree - it can be really hard to read/listen to opinions that are completely contradictory to your own. However, I agree with Theresa - think of it as "arming" (bad, bad pun) yourself with opposite ideas....if we're going to intelligently argue our own thoughts then we need to be prepared to defend them against things like "might makes right." I understand how infuriating it can be, though. Just power through - his ideas, though frustrating - will ultimately make yours stronger. posted 2/16/2010 at 9:30 AM

Jen C wrote: I am with Carolyn in writing in the margins. It really does work to write your objections right there in the margins. Also, I have a huge interests in gender studies and I like to read the stuff that I do not agree with sometimes because it hones your arguments as to why you do not agree with the writer. So read it, but as you do it take notes in the margins as to how you would counteract the argument, not only will the professor love all the thought you have given it, but it may give you a opportunity to sway people from your class to hear your side of the argument more clearly. Good luck, and use your anger to make your argument. posted 2/16/2010 at 9:34 AM

Pantea B wrote: Akkkkhh Sam, I know how that feels! The other night I was trying to enjoy a nice night watching the Olympic Openings with my friend and as each country marched in, I just kept saying how beautiful would it be if all of our world interactions were in such a manner, where each flag is waved, each country is appreciated for what they bring in and offer to the rest of the world. My friend laughed and said "pssh, you and I don't even get along, how do you expect the world to get along?" The subject of world peace came up. I said well, obviously we do get along (as seen on TV now). I wish this was the extent of the world's interactions with each other in a joyous celebration of all the nations not in bombing one another! I brought up how sad it was that more than half a million Iraqi civilians have been killed just because of greed and the quest for oil. He said "Yeah, and we are still paying for that! If we killed that many people and took over their country that oil should be ours!" I was mortified, but like you I had to keep my cool and keep an open mind about what I was hearing. What I have realized in advocacy work, is that sometimes the greatest asset is learning the mindset and reasoning of the opposite belief system. It will help you do your work better, sort of like "keep your friends close but your enemies closer". I like that I now have the ability to sit through such conversations because It's made me smarter, and a better debater. Before I used to get so angry that I'd walk away or stop talking to people who said such things! Please do share your end result/review of the book when you are done. posted 2/16/2010 at 12:49 PM