Why Open-Mindedness Requires Listening, Not Avoidance

There is a subtle yet crucial difference between 'hearing' and 'listening.' To prove my open-mindedness does not necessitate engaging with bigoted views. Listening, on the other hand, entails more than just hearing—it involves an impartial judgment. The question 'Why do I have to listen to bigoted views to prove I’m open-minded' is rooted in a misunderstanding of the true nature of open-mindedness. Understanding this requires exploring the distinction between hearing and listening and the importance of engaging with diverse viewpoints.

The Distinction Between Hearing and Listening

Firstly, let's clarify the distinction between hearing and listening. Just because you hear something does not mean you are listening to it. To listen involves not only receiving the information but also processing it and forming a judgment. In the digital age, platforms like YouTube and Twitter expose us to opinions that we might not agree with. For instance, periodically checking Fux News to stay informed about the status quo exposes us to a wide array of views, even if we choose not to engage with them.

I hear bigoted views, but I do not listen to them. It is natural to come across such views as we traverse the digital landscape. However, the real test of open-mindedness lies in evaluating these views impartially after hearing them. This process is a cornerstone of critical thinking and empathy, allowing us to develop a more nuanced understanding of the world.

The Myth of Proving Open-Mindedness

Ironically, the need to 'prove' open-mindedness often stems from a lack of true open-mindedness. It is troubling to consider that someone demands evidence of open-mindedness before accepting it. Yet, history provides us with a profound lesson: in the Continental Congress, during the debate on independence in '1776', an old man declared, 'I never heard of an idea so dangerous that people can’t talk about it.' This statement encapsulates the importance of free discourse and the dangers of stifling debate.

To cultivate open-mindedness, it is essential to maintain an open mind. This means not jumping to conclusions quickly. Instead, it is advisable to hear various viewpoints, evaluate the evidence, and form a reasoned judgment. It is not only acceptable but beneficial to listen to different people and ideas, even those that may be contrary to one's beliefs. This practice fosters a deeper understanding and respect for diverse perspectives.

A Balanced Approach to Engagement

Engaging with a wide range of ideas and people does not mean endorsing every viewpoint. It is a method to gather information, analyze, and form a more informed opinion. For example, Jehovah’s Witnesses, flat earthers, and neo-Nazis all come knocking on one's door from time to time. It is courteous to listen to their pitches, but after careful examination, one may find that their teachings do not align with one's values. Similarly, while many may find the arguments of men’s rights activists or anti-abortion activists hard to accept, understanding their perspectives helps in addressing the root causes of their beliefs.

However, it is also crucial to recognize the boundaries. If certain views are consistently lacking in revolutionary insights, it might not be wise to continuously engage with them. Blocking individuals on social media can be a pragmatic decision, provided it does not backfire. On the other hand, ignoring the existence of such groups is equally unhelpful. They influence public opinion and discourse, and understanding them can be instrumental in shaping better policies and fostering societal harmony.

Ultimately, being open-minded means respecting human diversity and engaging with it with an open and inquisitive mind. This does not mean capitulating to every idea but rather approaching every conversation with a willingness to learn and a desire for truth. By embracing this approach, we can contribute to a more enlightened and empathetic society.