The manufactured polarisation entrenched in our society needs to start reflecting our amazing intelligence instead of holding us all back, we need to start finding common ground
In the vast ocean of public discourse, two ships, representing the divergent views of left and right, often set sail together. Embarking side by side on calm waters, they agree on foundational goals, but as the journey progresses and the winds of societal change blow, these vessels chart separate courses.
The spaces between these ships expand, signifying not just physical distance but deep-seated ideological divisions. Both ships may face turbulent or placid waters based on societal reactions to their ideologies. Yet amidst this separation, tools of navigation float as reminders of dialogue’s potential and the pursuit of mutual understanding.
In recent times, an alarming trend has surfaced. Virtue, a principle universally revered, has sometimes been commandeered as a tool for specific agendas. Instead of virtue serving as an inherent guide for our actions and beliefs, there are instances where it’s brandished as a weapon, a means to exert moral superiority and enforce outcomes. This hijacking of virtue can muddy the waters of genuine discourse, making it challenging to discern sincere intentions from manipulative tactics. When virtue is used as a mask for ulterior motives, it threatens the authenticity of conversations and undermines the foundation of trust.
Tolerance of differing views is more than a societal virtue; it’s a necessity. Every opinion stems from personal experiences, belief systems, and worldviews. Dismissing or silencing them robs us of the chance to enrich our perspectives. Encouraging multiple viewpoints leads to holistic solutions, reflecting the insights and strengths from all sides of the spectrum.
However, tolerance is not synonymous with blind agreement. It denotes understanding, respect, and the acknowledgment of another’s right to their beliefs. This respect fosters constructive dialogue, celebrates common ground, and ensures disagreements remain civil.
As discourse’s waters continue to shift, every ship, no matter its direction, relies on its compass for guidance. Recognizing this and harnessing dialogue and understanding can bridge the widening chasms of belief. In this vast ocean of diverse opinions, mutual respect and collaboration make the journey meaningful, steering society towards a harmonious horizon of progress.
