The Essentiality of Open-Minded Discourse by Christine Smith Essay

The Essentiality of Open-Minded Discourse by Christine Smith - Essay ExampleI would first raise this government issue in the class discussing the form of the letters arguments and, next, with the letters author, my conversancy. I would then reflect on whether I indeed practice the principles of tolerance that I preach to others.My initial reaction to the letter in question and the particular discussion in my class characterizing the letter as an example of bad argumentation would be to acknowledge that, yes, the letter presents immature and imprudent arguments against homosexuality. To do otherwise would ignore the obvious. I would then attempt to prevent the class from estimating the quality of my friend from the quality of his arguments, as a good person can have misguided opinions and make flawed arguments. And, equally abhorrent to arguments based on biases and prejudices is passing judgment on a person before taking the time to understand his or her many facets.Indeed, it is p recisely this sentiment that I would then carry to my friend, the author of the letter. Since he is my friend, and has been for kind of some time, I naturally care about him, his feelings, his perception of the world, and others perceptions of him. I would advise him that, regardless of his personal opinion of homosexuality, his method of presenting his views was harsh and injudicious, passing blossom judgment on homosexuals and on those readers who do not agree with his perspective. I would endeavor to be understanding and patient with my friend, attempting to convey to him the benefit of sanitary deal rather than mere blind contentions about controversial issues.Finally, after having discussed with my classmates and with my friend the advantages of healthy argument and open-mindedness, I would spend some time quietly and really reflecting on whether I practice those qualities myself. I would like to think that I am tolerant and nonjudgmental, and that I was indeed in a moral stick to discuss the value of forbearance and open discourse. To be sure, I would re-read my friends letter, evaluate my initial reaction to it, ponder on whether and how I would write it differently if I felt the need to express my opinion on the subject of homosexuality, and consider whether the entire incident had changed my feelings for my friend or for my classmates. It is through this type of self-reflective process that I can be satisfied that my response to my friends letter was honest.In sum, one cannot minimize the importance of open dialogue to flesh out the many perspectives our parliamentary procedure maintains. Some arguments are better presented than others and, by definition, no ones opinion, though perhaps misguided, can be wrong. Indeed, critical to wise discourse is the ability to express ones opinions and take care to those of others openly and without bias. With hope, then, maybe one person who would otherwise belligerently convey preconceived, negative and ba seless opinions will reflect and, instead, embrace a wise and healthy method of expression.Topic OutlineI.IntroductionA.Acceptance and tolerance lead to healthier expression and debateB.First, discuss the form of the letters arguments with classmatesC.Second, discuss the form of the letters arguments with friendD.Third, reflect on whether I am tolerant and