Opinions

by Duffy McMahon on January 30, 2012 • No comments

Everyone has an opinion. But what exactly is an opinion? According to the Oxford Dictionary, an opinion is: a view or judgment formed about something, not necessarily based on fact or knowledge. The underlying point is; they are not necessarily based on fact or knowledge. Opinions are points of view. And, if you’re like me, I get a little cranky when someone blatantly tells me my opinion is wrong.

Opinions are neither right nor wrong. And if you happen to disagree with someone’s viewpoint, it shouldn’t become a point of contention. But, somehow Americans have this notion that everyone has to agree or the world, as we know it, will come to an end. Why? To me, it’s no different than someone who enjoys spelunking. It’s not something I’m interested in but, if a person wants to burrow into caves and caverns like ferrets…more power to them. I know…you’re saying an opinion isn’t doing something you enjoy, like bungee jumping…it’s a belief.

Ok, so if an opinion is a belief, are we all supposed to believe the same? Does that mean; if I believe in Christianity and I have a friend that believes in Buddhism and another that believes in Judaism, then two of us have to change our spiritual beliefs? I don’t think so! Isn’t that what’s causing so much discord in the world already. So now, you’re saying an opinion isn’t necessarily a belief…it’s a viewpoint.

You’re right. It’s a person’s point of view on any subject. But, like with things people enjoy or their belief systems, we don’t have to agree. In fact, I appreciate having the opportunity to listen to someone else’s point of view. Differences of opinions are great avenues for debate, for consideration and for learning. Think of how much you could glean from someone different from you. You might actually find that you could change the way you think. It’s possible!

Mark Twain said, “In matters of opinion our adversaries are insane.” I love Mark Twain’s ability to state the obvious. The problem though, is today, our definition of adversaries is anyone different than us…different culturally, different ethnically, different socially and sadly, different politically. And we’ve become, literally, inflexible about learning about anyone different.

Somehow, in this new millennium, many Americans have this “you’re either with me or against me” attitude about anything with which they disagree. This attitude is destructive and will continue to take its toll on our nation if we don’t change. When individuals don’t have the ability to discuss differences peacefully or listen to different points of views without getting angry, outraged and indignant, there’s a problem. Tragically, the anger, stress and anxiety that I see from many of my clients is reflective of this inability to have opposing views without conflict.

It’s important to be able to voice an opinion. For Americans, it’s our constitutional right of free speech. So, when someone gives an opinion you’re opposed to…try being considerate and listen. Remember, it’s only a point of view, not necessarily based on fact or knowledge…and they also have the right of free speech.

This is Duffy on Your Mind