Dissent is Friendship
May 10, 2024
Dissent, disagreement, and lively debates are the lifeblood of democracy. They keep us sharp, they challenge our beliefs, and they ensure that we never become complacent. Even among friends, it's perfectly normal to disagree vehemently on certain issues. In fact, it's healthy.
Recently, I found myself in a spirited debate with a friend. It all started with a simple request from a student who wanted to interview me for her research. My friend argued that I should make it difficult for young people like her, while I believed that they already have enough challenges and should be supported.
The exchange of messages between me and my friend perfectly illustrates this point.
In response to the student's request for an interview, my frined suggested a series of questions and conditions to put to the student. He emphasized the importance of thorough preparation and proof of work before he would agree to the interview. While I agree that preparation is important, I also believe that we shouldn't make it unnecessarily difficult for young people to access knowledge and expertise.
My friend and I went back and forth on this issue, with him arguing that making it easy for young people would create weak leaders and me countering that it's not my job to make things difficult for someone who simply wants to have a conversation with me.
The truth is, there is a belief among some that we need to make things difficult for others, especially young people, in order to toughen them up. But I disagree. I believe that it's already hard enough for young people today, and we shouldn't add unnecessary barriers to their path.
Ultimately, my friend and I didn't see eye to eye on this issue. But that's okay. Dissent among friends is normal and healthy. It challenges us to think critically, to defend our beliefs, and to consider other perspectives. And in the end, it makes us stronger.
So let's embrace dissent, let's welcome disagreement, and let's keep the conversation going. Because that's what democracy is all about.
Miguel Goede
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