Why can't we debate with civility?

The Daily Herald has hit the hammer on the head with this Editorial, Why can't we debate with civility?. When we observe the slanderous statements that are made in the internet and comments that are unqualified are attached to articles on newspaper Web sites, these are essentially the same sort of tactics as the school yard bully. Residents expect good debate on the issues, not the mud slinging of a few cowards. Our residents expect discussion of real issues that are grounded in facts and data. They expect elected officials to make decisions that make their lives better. They expect meaningful debate with substance that moves issues forward.