The other day on Twitter a commenter used the phrase “intentionally obtuse” to describe a particular political faction in today’s America, and I thought that was an interesting and often accurate observation.
Long ago, a lifelong newsman trained me to always write to a sixth grade level for the benefit of all readers. It’s a rule I’ve always adhered to, sometimes intentionally, sometimes not.
Without judging, it occurred to me that some sixth graders may not be up to speed on the definition of “intentionally obtuse,” which can be defined as “deliberately feigning ignorance or misunderstanding to derail a conversation, avoid a direct answer, or wear down an opponent.” It is a manipulative tactic used to play dumb, even when the topic or intent is perfectly clear.
You might ask, why would anyone be intentionally obtuse? There is a psychology behind it. Here’s some reasoning for you:
Deflection: Redirects focus away from a sensitive or damning subject by forcing the other person to explain basic, self-explanatory concepts.
Energy drain: Wastes the other person’s time, forcing them to over-explain just to get a simple “yes,” “no,” or concession.
Weaponized incompetence: To avoid accountability, an intentionally obtuse person acts as though a request or concept is too difficult to grasp.
You might also be asking yourself was Foley really trained to write to a sixth grade level? Or is he just feeding us a line of BS?
Google the following question: are many newspaper writers trained to write to a sixth grade level? It will give you this answer, or something similar:
“Yes, many newspaper writers are trained to write at an elementary to middle school reading level. Journalism schools and editors actively encourage this. This is not to ‘dumb down’ the news, but to ensure maximum clarity, accessibility and fast readability for a broader audience.”
The explanation will go on to say something like this: “Writing to a sixth to eighth grade level simply means removing unnecessary jargon, avoiding overly dense phrasing and utilizing short, direct sentences. It allows content to be grasped instantly by a mainstream audience across varying education levels.”
It’s not a topic that the average person gives much thought. In my 44 years here, I can recall only one reader engaging me in a conversation about the reading level to which community newspapers are supposed to be written. That reader was Frank Offutt, longtime former mayor of Platte City, a man with an interest in many worldly topics. And by the way, there’s no one in this region with a greater appreciation and understanding of Platte City and the surrounding area, its people and its history. The man is a walking encyclopedia of local knowledge.
Speaking of Frank Offutt, he’ll be retiring as administrator of the Platte City Special Road District effective at 5:59 p.m. on Monday, June 1.
“After 31 years serving the district’s taxpayers and elected officials, preparations for this event have been in motion for months,” Offutt wrote in a recent letter announcing the move.
Offutt’s note goes on to say that “all my fiduciary responsibilities, including legal, financial, and appointed, will conclude at the time previously noted. Commitments of service as a voting representative to any political subdivision, offices or organization(s) where membership held or bonded are included in this announcement of retirement.”
As district administrator, Offutt has been responsible for tasks such as budgeting, permitting, street plan review and approval, finance officer, project manager, public information officer, safety officer, human resources manager, payroll officer, and the duty as the elected commissioners’ proxy.
“I extend my sincere thanks for the cooperation and respect extended by you and your staff over the past three decades and wish you well and your continued success in the years ahead. The opportunity to work with you has been rewarding and made for many pleasant memories,” Offut wrote in his classy sign-off.
Offutt is also executive director of Platte County Water Supply District No. 4. Recently I asked him via text if his intent is to keep plugging away at the water district. “Yes, we gotta keep the water flowing for a few more years,” was his response.
Chris Stigall has announced he has been endorsed by Dagmar Wood, so I guess that pretty much seals the deal in the Republican primary race for Sixth District Congressman.
Wait. Not so fast. Stigall’s opponent, Nathan Willett, announced he has received the endorsement of Scott Fricker, so I guess it’s game on.
Wood and Fricker, couple power hitters in the lineup right there, you guys. Battle of the political titans who in recent years went a combined 0-3 in their endorsements of jail tax proposals and 0-2 in their endorsements against the children’s tax question.
Looks like one of them will finally be on the winning side of an election. Which one will it be?
For those who may not be aware, Dagmar Wood has divorced and remarried. Her last name these days is Williams. Just assumed if I wrote Dagmar Williams instead of Dagmar Wood there might be some reader confusion because Dagmar is a very common name. . .
(Find Foley closely tracking endorsements of Stigall and Willett. Email ivan@plattecountylandmark.com)
