Making A Good Argument

When faced with differing viewpoints, how do you respond?  Do you listen constructively, and use what’s being said to critically examine how that fits into your own set of beliefs and conceptions, or do you instead immediately discount the opposing viewpoint?  Making a good argument shouldn’t necessarily involve a “scorched earth” policy.

Photo credit victoriapeckham

If you step back and watch the behavior of people, it becomes readily apparent that we tend to gather in groups that have similar beliefs.  It’s a near-universal behavior.  Republicans kneel before Hannity and Rush, while Democrats live and die by Pelosi and Obama.  Religious believers generally don’t associate with atheists, and PETA doesn’t really have much constructive to say about the NRA.

It’s natural to want to associate with people of similar beliefs and values.  Having others reaffirm our values helps strengthen the “truth” of our beliefs.  It makes us feel both good and comfortable to associate with people who are “like us.”  Be cautious of the dark side though.  Being isolated in a singular bubble of thoughts and beliefs can also lead to stagnation.  That’s why a good argument can be a positive experience, and also explains many businesses value diversity in the workplace.  While bringing together people of varying backgrounds and beliefs may create the potential for conflict, if managed properly, it can also spawn creativity.  You can harness this in your own life as well.  Here’s how:

• Listen.  Too often, our response to an opposing viewpoint in an argument to simply rebut and discount.  Instead, simply listen to what the other person has to say.  Who knows, you may learn something in the process.
• Enjoy a good argument.  A good argument can be something that’s actually fun and entertaining.  It can be an opportunity to learn and grow, if approached with the correct mindset.  For what its worth, that doesn’t include “slash and burn” policy, where the other party is crushed into submission.
• Truly consider what’s being said.  Most arguments I personally observe consist of each person telling the other why they’re wrong.  There’s little room for an actual exchange of ideas, because everyone is emotional.  Sometimes even angry.  No one benefits.

A good argument can be something to be enjoyed.  It can provide everyone with a chance to examine the facts and opinions of an opposing viewpoint.  More importantly though, it should provide you with the opportunity to examine your own opinion.  Simply listening to an opposing view doesn’t mean you have to agree.  But listening does give you a chance to understand yourself more fully.