From the desk of Roland Rocchiccioli

Don’t answer the foolish arguments of fools, or you will become as foolish as they. Conversely, be sure to answer the foolish arguments of fools, or they will become wise in their own estimation.

To respond, or not? It is a vexed predicament. Risking repetition: there is nothing to be achieved by demonising politicians. They are the inevitable occupational hazard of a stable democracy. Pesonal abuse does nothing to advance the narrative, and makes no valuable contribution to the Nation’s dialogue; however…

Recently, the Member for New England, The Hon. Barnaby Joyce MP, made public comments which, following so closely on the failed political assassination in the United Sates, are cause for the gravest disquiet; an insult to the office he holds. On reflection: Mr. Joyce is foolish. His hesitant, qualified apology has done little to justify, or to eradicate, the gravity of his shenanigans. His chilling choice of metaphor, comparing votes to bullets, was a not reaction inspired by the impetus of the moment. The alarming rhetoric was a premeditated outburst garnered to achieve optimal media coverage. His childish, vulgar language since the incident serves only to exacerbate his implacability. A sometimes loose cannon, we have, over the years, been subjected to a litany of his disagreeable, linguistic solecisms and outrageous antics. Mr. Joyce’s seeming lack of judgement, coupled with his hubris and barbative language, is a demonstration of a malaise which is polluting public life. However, and in fairness, he is not the only culprit.

The inability of some politicians to adequately manage the language is indicative of the calibre of those being attracted to the political arena. Too many incumbents are functioning illiterates. Many of whom would fail a basic year-12 literacy test. A New South Wales politician admitted to signing, without reading, important documents. The legalise was, put simply, beyond his intellectual capability. That is scary. While many laughed at Pauline Hanson’s naïve, “please explain,” to reporter Tracy Curro, it has implicit and far-reaching, philosophical ramifications. We lived in a nuanced world. Technology has brought events into our lives in a way our ancestors never fancied. The voracious 24/7 news cycle is a double-edged sword. While it provides representatives with endless opportunities to advocate party policy, and to heighten their public profile, it is an assured quagmire for the cavalier politician. The temptation to run-off-the-mouth like a tap is irresistible. The chasing of a headline, and the constant pursuit of celebrity, has become a major component of the tenure.

It was to be hoped former prime minister Julia Gillard’s impassioned misogyny speech might have led to a transformation in the political modus operandi. While it heralded a momentary lull in vitriol, it has reverted to its former potency. The political rhetoric is, on all sides of parliament, rancid. Point scoring is common place — de rigueur. Mr. Joyce’s latest outburst is particularly offensive.

There is a pervading degree of ignobility in the parliamentary discourse. Parliament is the house and voice of the people. It deserves the respect of the elected representatives. While it could be argued, speciously, the vernacular is the language of the everyday person, and therefore legitimate, it is gratuitous. It lacks dignity. Politicians of all persuasions need to learn to control their collective tongues, and moderate their language.

Roland joins Brett Macdonald radio 3BA 10.45 Monday morning. Contact [email protected]