The Pendragon's Hall

Does provoking outrage equal provoking thought? It seems anymore on a Christian campus that professors or speakers are allowed to say just about anything, calculated to offend, all on the basis of "provoking thought." Now, I always thought of things rationally, not in the heat of emotion. Nevertheless, to provoke outrage and offense, means people are reacting emotionally, not thoughtfully to what is being said. These sorts of statements are not meant to educate, exort or edify but only to offend. Rather than logically and calmly discussing key issues, these "Christian" academics (I did it the other way yesterday so I'll do it this way today) make outlandish and outrageous statements that should raise the ire of anyone holding to a traditional view. Normally, nothing is said to prove the traditional view false; they simply trash it and feel like they are bold and "on the cutting edge." This does not provoke thought, although it may provoke discussion and division. These "academics" would be better advised to think and discuss quietly rather than decide they dislike a proposition for whatever reason and execrate it, along with all who believe it.