7 Points When Going Beneath the Surface

Here are just a few areas to explore when reviewing positions:

1. Facts. We can find many "facts" that aren't really facts at all, but are opinions, guesses or assumptions.
2. Assumptions. What are we assuming to be desirable, well established or unchangeable? Assumptions can lead us down many a rabbit hole.
3. Comparisons. Think apples and oranges. Notice how often false comparisons are made in political discourse.
4. Burdens. Who is bearing the heaviest burden? Are we paying too much or too little attention to the burdens?
5. The Long Term. It may be a grand short term solution but how will it fare over the long? Will it set a positive precedent?
6. Appearance. Does it fail The Front Page Test? What if close friends or family knew about this behavior?
7. Self-Interest. Are we adopting a position that is solely for our own interest and which will harm other stakeholders? Is this done to promote an ethical value?