Introducing TWIM’s Power Commenters

As stated in the introduction, the eBate is a real-time, one-hour long online debate between myself and another writer. I'm saddened to say, my opponent for eBate #1 – Deacon Duncan – has eschewed my invitation.

Nonetheless, life goes on, and without further adieu, I'd like to introduce TWIM's first four Power Commenters: MS Quixote, Lifeguard, Brad and Dominic Salterelli. As stated before, neither Brad, Lifeguard or Dominic Salterelli argue belief: All three are skeptics of the atheist variety, as the last thing I wanted was a bunch of Power Commenters who argue belief, inviting charges of padding the jury. Better, all three of them have shown a consistent and objective willingness to both agree and disagree with me, in the complete absence of insults and personal remarks. The same goes for MS Quixote, only he does argue belief – Calvinist Christianity in particular.

I've selected these men because I am 100% confident that whether they agree or disagree with me, their opinions are the result of rational processes. I'd eventually like to get a decent body of over ten Power Commenters, and in that vein I would also like to invite commenter Jayman whom I know from EvangelicalRealism. So Jayman, if you're reading this and at all interested, drop me a line.

To reiterate, Brad suggested the concept of Power Commenters via reference to computer system administration, and their purpose is "to try and thwart the otherwise invariably downturned trajectory that follows in thread after thread." Originally, the idea was to have the Power Commenters serve as ad hoc moderators or judges during real-time, one-on-one discussion, with comments from the general readership on hold until the Power Commenters have offered their initial comments and criticisms. But why limit them thusly? That being said, the first post to employ Power Commenting will be today's post, which was intended to be part of eBate #1 with Deacon Duncan.

I honestly couldn't care less about the flippant opinions and personal remarks proffered as cogent arguments by the vast majority of my detractors, but the reasoned opinions of my Power Commenters are invaluable to me, and I'd like to sincerely thank them all in advance for their participation.

(To be continued…)