We can usually learn much more from people whose views we share than from people whose views contradict our own.
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.
The speaker, who identifies himself as ‘Dr. Wu’, asserts that because people are ‘so busy’ these days, they are less likely to listen to others whose views differ from their own. This assertion is debatable, as people who are busy may simply disagree with others more often, rather than hearing out new ideas. Furthermore, because most people today feel that they are in a perpetual state of learning, it is likely that their opinion is as malleable as the people they are listening to
While it is true that one’s views can be strengthened through exposure to others, one’s opinions on certain issues can be strengthened through exposure to such people. As a society, we place great value on freedom of speech and expression. By allowing people to express their opinions, we do not expect them to agree with us. No matter what one’s opinion is, as long as it is within the realm of morality, it should be able to be heard honestly and without judgment. While some may act as a gatekeeper to prevent certain opinions from being heard, most would rather hear people put forth their opinions, even if they disagree with them. If a person believes, for example, that abortion is wrong, then he or she is free to voice that opinion without the fear of being persecuted by other members of society. However, if the person is unwilling to listen to what others have to say on abortion, then that person may be less inclined to listen to those who oppose his views in other areas. For example, if another individual believes that abortion should be legal in most circumstances, then that person might dismiss the opposing viewpoint as irrelevant. However, if the person is willing to listen to both sides, he or she may come to a fuller understanding of why abortion is, or is not, legal
The speaker also asserts that people are too busy to listen. While this is true of many today, it is also true that in this day and age, people are in a perpetual state of learning. Whether it is through reading, education, or experience, people are constantly being exposed to new ideas and information. This is not necessarily a bad thing; in fact, it is one of the hallmarks of an educated person. If every opinion that a person encountered was the same, then that person would not be able to grow as a person. Just as one might read multiple books on a subject, listening to multiple views on an issue may strengthen one’s opinion. More importantly, however, it may allow the person to understand a different perspective on the same issue. While listening to different viewpoints, a person is less likely to rely on stereotypes or to take something at face value. Humans are complex creatures, and by listening to others, we learn more about ourselves
The fact that most people today feel they are in a constant state of growth is a factor that may influence an individual’s ability to listen to opposing viewpoints. Because people do feel that they are always learning new things about themselves and the world, they may feel that their views are constantly evolving. Mistakes or misunderstandings are opportunities for growth; in fact, they are an essential part of growing as a person. If an individual was unable or unwilling to listen to opposing views in the past, he or she may now feel embarrassed or defensive about those thoughts. Thus, by listening to opposing viewpoints, a person may feel as though he or she is constantly being held back, and this can inhibit growth
However, this argument assumes that people are more willing to listen to those who are similar to them, rather than those who challenge their beliefs. While people may be willing to listen to opposing viewpoints on social issues, such as abortion, they may not listen to those who disagree with them on political issues, such as gun rights. To some degree, this may be due to fear of being in the minority. Many people do not want to hear dissenting opinions, for fear that they may be ridiculed or called names. While such reactions are unfortunate, it is up to the individual to decide whether or not he or she is willing to hear opposing views. If, for example, a person feels strongly that guns should be banned, then he or she is free to fight for that belief without hearing other views. However, if an individual is willing to listen to others, that person may learn why others feel differently than he or she does, and this may broaden his or her view of social issues.