In any situation, progress requires discussion among people who have contrasting points of view.

Write a response in which you discuss the extent to which you agree or disagree with the statement and explain your reasoning for the position you take. In developing and supporting your position, you should consider ways in which the statement might or might not hold true and explain how these considerations shape your position.

New ideas emerge when two or more individuals discuss an issue. While this is true, it does not follow that everyone’s opinion must be taken into account. There are times when only one person’s opinion matters and their point of view becomes the majority.

This statement is more accurate than false. For example, suppose two scientists are considering the possibility of a new type of super-absorbing polymer. One of these scientists has discovered a new, more efficient way to design the polymer. The other scientist vehemently disagrees with his approach and maintains that his original method was better. Unless the second scientist can come up with some evidence that the new process is flawed, his view will, in all likelihood, be accepted. Neither scientist’s opinion will necessarily carry the day, but their disagreement might spur further experimentation.

Another example is political decision-making. Politicians frequently disagree about the best method for accomplishing a specific goal. While their discussions can lead to compromises, the majority view is not necessarily the best. For example, in a political party, it is more important for a candidate to win over the majority of voters than for them to persuade all party members to support their ideas. Still, each party member’s vote counts. When the majority view is correct, the party will progress; when it is not, it is likely to lose.

Those who read the article would assume that saying ‘progress requires discussion among people with contrasting points of view’ means that discussion is the only factor involved in progress. This is not necessarily so. Progress sometimes requires a person to be resolute in their convictions. Sometimes, progress requires a person to stick to one course of action, no matter how unpopular or unpopular. For example, suppose that some construction workers build a dam and intend to use concrete as the dam’s base. The workers have discussed the use of concrete, but one of the workers is vehemently opposed to using concrete because he believes that steel is superior. If the worker’s views sway the workers’ foreman, the project will be delayed. The foreman needs to know that steel is special and that concrete cannot hold the dam up. The foreman also needs to recognize that his decision may endanger the lives of the construction workers, so he must be resolute in his decision.

The statement is correct only if all people’s opinions should be taken into account. Otherwise, the idea is false. If everyone’s opinion is essential, then progress is impossible. One person’s refusal to consider another’s opinion may result in improvement, but such progress would be plodding. Progress occurs only when another person’s view does not influence one person’s perspective.

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