I’m a proponent of challenging the norm by asking tough questions and having open dialogue. Thinking about Charlie Kirk this week, it seems many people respected his dialogue even if they disagreed with some of his views, but there are also those that felt he was hateful, due to the topics he addressed. I find it hard to find evidence of him being anything but firm in his convictions, beyond the minor sarcastic comment here or there, but overall he would let anyone have a dialogue with him independent of age, gender, race, or political affiliation.
In reflecting upon this, are there others in our society that also encourage open dialogue on a regular basis, specifically on the more liberal side? Some on the right may point to Ben Shapiro, or Tucker Carlson which often had more monologues, but are there others on the opposing side? I can think of individuals such as Bernie Sanders that have been vocal at times, but don’t actively engage in discourse. Are there other individuals that do?
It seems a sad aspect of society when one can not ask questions. Echo chambers of media and society (on both sides) can be dangerous, so being challenged in ones beliefs should not be taken as an affront or hate, but a way for one to strengthen one’s own convictions and help both sides learn more. Name-calling and soundbites aren’t productive, but intentional conversation where both sides take time to listen to each other is of upmost importance.
I remain friends with those that are either quite liberal or quite conservative, as they provide additional perspectives for me to consider. Silencing opposing views is beneficial to no one, and only further seeks to divide. I recognize many individuals get heated in certain topics, but I encourage individuals to find room for discourse with those that have opposing views. You both make walk away firm in your views (and even thinking the other person is an idiot), but you may also learn something as well.
I appreciate those on all sides who have had productive conversations with me in the past, and I look forward to continuing them. Ask questions about the opposing views, but also ask questions about your own.
