shrijith1993 Posted October 30, 2021 Share Posted October 30, 2021 Discussing controversial topics with those with contrasting views is not useful because very few people change their minds when questioned about their core beliefs. Discussions about controversial topics are always useful because these discussions would help us grow as human beings by making our thought processes transparent and letting us come to terms with the world around us. Whether such a discussion changes people's minds since it questions their core beliefs is undergirded on factors such as the person putting forth the discussion and the quality of communication. On top of that, the statement mentions 'contrasting views' implicate that the person putting forth the discussion is assumed to be right, which is not always true. People attach their core beliefs to their identity. So, when they're questioned about their core beliefs, it is akin to threatening their identity. Hence, they defend themselves by refusing to change their mind. For example, the question "Does god exists?" will not be contemplated by several people because the very act of questioning goes against their beliefs. But, discussing such controversial topics requires structured communication and patience. Starting at the top level of the thought process and digging further, disentangling each thought process, and narrowing down the set of beliefs on top of those their conclusion is built upon will not provoke them and provide a smooth transition for them to question their core beliefs. Additionally, when strongly validated people put forth discussions of controversial topics, people accept those thought processes and work on them. Expecting people to change their minds immediately about a core belief does not make sense. Given time, people retrospect on their thought processes and start to think further. In conclusion, the way controversial topics are discussed and by whom these discussions are put forth affect the way people perceive these questions. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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