On the importance of disagreement
The beginning of thought is in disagreement - not only with others but also with ourselves. –Eric Hoffer
Honest disagreement is often a good sign of progress. –Mohandas Gandhi
Greetings all! I would like to introduce myself. My name is Brynn, and I’ll be joining the fantastic stable of authors at Dangerous Intersection. I’m flattered that Erich asked me to be a part of what is being built here. Lots of very talented people are contributing their thoughts to the ongoing discussion generated on various topics, and I’m honored to be a part of that.
I’ve been a regular reader of DI for about a year, and I’ve been impressed with the quality posts as well as the engaging discussion that often occurs in the comments following the post. One thing that is never shied away from is disagreement. Nor should disagreement be avoided. There is no party line here, there is no heresy. What is abundant is the type of quality discussion and debate that is the hallmark of a vigorous, open community.
Too often in contemporary American society, honest debate is stifled. Politicians have learned to speak in sound bites. Media commentators have learned to present insipid and truncated stories to a largely passive and apathetic audience. The constraints of time or column inches prevent a lengthy examination of any given issue. Talking points are adopted by the major parties’ respective constituencies as though they were absolute truth. The vehemence with which one holds an opinion has become a substitute for thoughtful reflection on the reasons why one holds an opinion.
This must change. The staggering array of challenges that face us demand a well-informed and engaged citizenry . . .
