Feeble Arguments Need Amplified Boost

(CLICK TO ENLARGE) In between bites of a sandwich, Yahanah (with the microphone) has no problem using the amplifier to quell another opposing argument at the corner of H and 8th Streets NE Saturday. Forget the telemarketing calls that briefly interrupt dinner at home. The amplified speech at H and 8th Streets NE is a four-hours long continuous disruption for everyone in the community. One group yet again awakened one neighbor’s ill toddler from a nap. (Copyright © 2006. David Klavitter)

It is now obvious that the Isreali School of Universal Practical Knowledge (ISUPK) uses their amplifier for a purpose beyond deliberate harassment of H Street residents and businesses: The group needs it to ensure only its arguments are heard over any opposing views.

Time and time again, a pattern repeats at the corner of H and 8th Streets: A passerby attempts to engage the ISUPK in debate, only to be buried under an avalanche of decibels. There is no equal exchange—the amplified argument allows no opposing word to be heard.

Either the ISUPK lacks true belief and confidence in its apparently frail doctrines or it is unable to articulate them against any other views. Or maybe it is both.

And instead of becoming better orators or honing their arguments, the ISUPK men simply fall back on their crutch—the loudspeaker. They’re now dependent on the device—addicted to the power of an amplifier. No better than the drug dealers they claim to abhor.

How pathetic and hypocritical.