DISSENT: It’s crucial for democracy

In a letter to the editor published on July 17, Suzanne Kearney labeled us, Michelle Lippert, Pat Raffee and Theresa Birkett as “critical curmudgeons.” Initially, we found this amusing, but upon reflection, we saw deeper implications in her accusation. Let’s dissect this label.

Firstly, the adjective “critical.” Michelle taught Logic and Critical Thinking at NIC. In these courses, being a critical thinker was essential. A critical thinker exercises careful judgment and judicious evaluation, which are fundamental to informed decision-making and democratic engagement. Therefore, being “critical” is a virtue, not a vice. We suspect Kearney intended the term pejoratively, implying unwarranted negativity rather than constructive analysis. 

Kearney’s main objection seems to be our criticism of the Community Library Network board. She suggests that dissent against the board majority is inappropriate. This stance is deeply troubling. Criticism and dissent are cornerstones of a healthy democracy. Silencing dissenting voices undermines principles of democratic governance. 

This brings us to the term “curmudgeon.” Nobel Prize-winning author and German exile Thomas Mann, during his 1938 U.S. lecture tour, warned about the dangers of fascism and the suppression of dissent. His books were burned in Nazi Germany because he spoke out against authoritarianism. Mann argued that fascism masquerades as new and innovative while branding democracy and dissent as old and decayed (“The Coming Victory of Democracy,” 1938). By calling us “curmudgeons,” Kearney is using a similar tactic: dismissing legitimate criticism by framing it as outdated or obstructive. 

If being a “curmudgeon” means standing against anti-democratic forces and defending the right to dissent, then we proudly accept the label. Critical thinking and the courage to challenge authority are crucial. 

We are critical curmudgeons.

THERESA BIRKETT and MICHELLE LIPPERT

on behalf of the Library Alliance of North Idaho