When Beliefs Become Stronger Than Facts Coffee, Shade, and Politics A few days ago, I was sitting outside with an older neighbor, enjoying one of those quiet afternoons that almost force a person to slow down. We sat in pleasant shade, drinking coffee while soft sunlight filtered through the leaves. It was peaceful in the kind of way only retirement, old gardens, and warm afternoons can create. My neighbor is a retired schoolteacher, intelligent, calm and reasonable. The kind of person you expect to be thoughtful and balanced. Somehow, the conversation drifted toward politics. Normally I avoid political discussions. Not because I have no opinions, but because they so rarely lead anywhere useful. Most political debates today resemble two angry football fans screaming at each other while neither actually watches the match. Still, almost accidentally, I mentioned that I was not particularly fond of the current political option in our country. Not even because of ideology, but becau...