I've had some time to write something a little clearer:
The whole thread is skewed towards encouraging people not to discuss politics. The reason why so many people sound so stupid when they talk politics is because they rarely do it. It's taboo, or they feel like they are not smart enough, or it's not cool.
People discussing politics, might get someone to read the news or a book. It might get them to ask someone who does know. It definitely means they are spending time thinking about it.
The taboo of politics is evil in a system based on democratic principle. The beauty of democracy isn't to pit one group against another or only allow the elite. Democracy is stong and good when all minds contribute. Democracy should not be exclusive,it should be inclusive. The sum of our power.
To limit it is not just bad for those excluded, but to everyone as it becomes polarized. Those who disagree appear to be enemies and treat each other as such. When we talk about it more, ideas begin to meld. The truth of the issue becomes clear when it's discussed because an illogical argument won't hold up. Opinions will shift closer, those who disagree become an asset.
I actually think we do it pretty well.
The media may be biased and not as free as it could but the media encourages involvement.
We have many means to discuss freely without fear of punishment from those who govern.
Someone saying something about politics, who is wrong or doesn't agree should be corrected or convinced with tact and respect.
When you treat people with respect, even if they don't agree, they will listen and they may not change their mind completely but they will be mindful if the reasoning is sound.
(Edit: Secret code for at someone who PM's and posts on my wall and doesn't want their id tracked off this site... when a friend says "hey, don't tell anyone, alright?" my answer is "Don't tell anyone what?")
I would cite regulation, but I know you will simply ignore it.
