THE EDITOR, Sir:
The Private Sector Organisation of Jamaica wanted us the public to be caught up in this whole hype of a political debate, thus overemphasising its ability. Debates, like any form of interviews, can be coached, meaning, with diligent practise, participants are able to provide the most pleasing answers to a range of questions.
This hardly proves that the person or persons are innovative or able to operate under stressful conditions.
What they are really demonstrating is an ability to retain limited information on particular areas. It's like a general perception that participants in the various spelling competitions are very 'bright' and intelligent individuals, only to discover that this is not necessarily so when they are later exposed to other areas.
This is what in economics is called 'alien mentality'. This occurs when one buys into something that originates from a foreign country, because he or she believes it worked for the observed environment, hence it should work for us.
Why not look at each person's track record and what level of innovation and competence they had brought to that post or present portfolio.
Finally in closing, I am grateful for those who want to remind us readers of the results of the 1993 debate.
The question that I would like these supporters of a political debate to answer is quite simple. Based on previous debates between Patterson and Portia, has PJ lived up to public expectations?
I am, etc.,
MICHAEL CLARKE
mclarke@excite.com
Lot 192 Greater Portmore
