Disecting a tactical email from the SA AG

This email response makes for an excellent study for how the AG approaches his job and especially criticism. Firstly, the usage of the term Mr Anonymous. (He should be so lucky) After having read my email and then my blog he still doesn’t know my name. Now this could be simple inattention to detail but I think he is trying to invalidate the criticism by falsely claiming it was made anonymously. A desperate start designed to inflame.

Of course this follows his aggressive behaviour as shown on the Good Game program. An approach that automatically sets folk against his cause. What we were hoping for was a straight forward point of view that could be defended on its merits. I have no doubt a solid discussion could be had on this matter but not by young Michael. He seems to have decided there is a conspiracy underway run by prepubescent male gamers.

I did apologise for claiming he does not use email. Apparently asking for a postal address is his way of sorting the abuse from the criticism. I have no doubt that he gets plenty of crank efforts especially from a few youngsters but surely a read of the content enables him to work out which ones are just some kid venting and which ones have a point to make. (I suggested a count of the F word would be a good starting point)

This is next effort is particularly irrelevant.

I trust you will be a candidate for the State District of Croydon at the next State election,

The logic of this statement escapes me. Obviously he doesn't think other folks views are worth considering. A childish argument. By way of education for the AG this is how it works.

How does 1 individual change a system that allows one AG to block legislation? By drawing attention to the problem for a big swag of Voters. When enough Voters demand better performance from their politicians, things get done right.

I offer, as an example, the demise of John Howard. He didn’t address the problems of the future. Folk recognised his short comings. And he lost the Election AND his own seat.

What’s with the “If you don’t agree with me you have to stand against me” argument? I hope this is not your solution to all the email complaints. The inference here is he will do what he bloody well likes rather than follow the wishes of the Voters if he chooses not to agree with them. Not quite what Democracy is supposed to be.

Now in the AG’s particular case it sounds like his efforts with migrants is well received and I applaud his efforts, but being effective for those folk doesn’t (or shouldn’t) allow him to be “out to lunch” on a different matter entirely.

Now to the diatribe bit. If he cared to read my anti war material before leaping to some odd conclusions, he would see it is much more relevant than trying to stop software entering the country. It’s aimed at the business end of the problem. Countries ignoring the UN and ramping up the frustration throughout the Middle East. You know, the folk with real guns and bombs and no moral limits on who they might use them against.

He clearly didn’t get the point of the criticism. I’m not here to defend any game scenarios. (I’m a FPS gamer who usually dials the blood off) I’m for getting a ratings system that can be controlled and reduces the risk of bringing in software with no controls at all. By not addressing the problem he encourages law breaking.

This next bit I don’t get at all.

** from meeting them in their lounge rooms (and now you will be horrified, Mr Anonymous) after the service outside their pagoda, mosque or church.**

Now why would I be horrified by him chatting to constituents outside any Church venue, be it Christian or otherwise? Obviously he is better at leaps of logic than following the point.

In conclusion, I think I can see why he is having so much trouble coming to grips with the problem. It’s all about personal vendettas. He thinks every criticism is from a rude gamer rather than something he should apply his brain to.

Now that he has had a swipe at the Eros Foundation I will invite them to comment and see what sort of behaviour they have observed in their battles with the AG. I don’t think I will be the only one to have experienced his twisted responses.

And if you have read this and are still unhappy Mr Atkinson, I'd be only too happy to publish your response if you are unable to post a comment.