The 8 Days of Happiness meme - Day 4

[access_identity]

This article.

Yeah people, have opinions. State them, don't hide them behind. Let's argue. Let's debate. Let's discuss. Be outspoken! :)

Bye, need to work again!

Comments

[janegray]

I don't know... I certainly always say what's on my mind, I'm extremely opinionated and sincere. But there is one part of that article that bothered me.

Some people tell me they get cathartic relief from reading my weekly cries for help on the opinion page. They say, "You say the things we're too scared to." "Why are you scared?" I ask. "We don't want to offend people." But how can you offend people by saying "This is what I reckon"? By saying we both have opinions, mine's just different to yours? How fragile are people if they can't cope with someone thinking differently? It's either an alternative view that may enlighten or an opposing one that gives you an opportunity to question what's informing your own opinion.

The problem is that some opinions are genuinely offensive, because they are actually harmful. The reason they are harmful is that, if you think that way, you are going to take certain actions that will cause harm. It's not a matter of "not being able to cope with someone thinking differently", it's a matter of "not

[access_identity]

Thanks for your opinion! Well, i didn't say i totally agree with the article did it? I was just in this mood and reading that somehow delighted me, hence I put it in the meme.

Now, about the part you're not sure with. Yes, in my opinion also, there are opinions so misguided and misguiding they don't even deserve to see the light of day. And the holders of such opinions most of the times don't bother trying to understand other's people view. Some of my mailing lists/forums are littered by people like these.

And in such conditions lies the importance of stating your opinion, I think. I know if I keep my opinion to myself, they'll think everyone agrees with them and they can have it all their way.

Maybe it's no use debating with them. Maybe we can't change them. But I hope in such public debates/discussion, there are other people who probably haven't made up their mind, and they will listen to us and see what we mean, and will not follow the 'harmful opinion'.

I'm sorry, I hope I understood your points well and gave a proper reply.

[janegray]

I understand :)

[makelar]

lol gladly there is somebody actually made article like that on the internet :D

[access_identity]

Such articles can be really refreshing :D