http://nla.gov.au/nla.pic-an23646705-vI have just listened to a delightful interview with Chester Porter QC on Radio National's program, Life Matters. It was about his book, The Gentle Art of Persuasion. He pointed out that defeating someone in argument - no matter how brilliant or flashy - was not the same as persuasion, as changing a person's mind by persuasive argument. He also believes in the transparency of argument.
He used as an illustration the arguments on both sides of the Federal Government's proposed industrial relations changes. He says that one thing the government is not saying is that it has the intention by this legislation of doing away with the trade union movement. He wondered if this was what Australians really wanted? Chester has retired from the Sydney Bar - well, he has his life membership - and his book ought to be well worth a read. Are you listening Santa? I would like this in my stocking please.
