"A rhetorical stance"

[peritonlogon]

It seems to me at least (to quote Plato) that many people have a difficulty recognizing the difference between a conviciton and a rhetorical stance. A rhetorical stance is where a person, regardless of conviction, is able to discuss different ideas and beliefs and, moreover, is able to come to an opinion on a subject based on the situation and ideas with which they are confronted. An example of this in practice (not worth debating) is John Kerry being pro Roe-v-Wade, yet being a faithful Catholic. Another is a non-god-fearing person who is able to discuss Theology. A conviction, on the other hand, is I do not think aboriton is right or I believe that god does not exist.

I thought this distinction could be useful in many of the threads that have passed through this forum. Also, I would like to read a discussion about it, so I will pose a question.

Are there any political (or any other, for that matter)positions that you have taken that does not jibe completely with your view of the cosmic whole, whatever that may be?