Inauguration Day is approaching.
While I am not thrilled about the result of the American presidential election as our nation looks toward bringing about a better America, I am hopeful.
I remain hopeful, but not due to my political affiliation or my allegiance toward any previous political candidate. I continue to remain hopeful because America is a society comprised of diverse and intelligent individuals who are willing to debate, criticize, and even compromise to achieve the best possible outcome. It is our freedom of opinion, no matter how false, that shall be our guiding factor.
While I am a conservative political thinker, it is not my entire identity. I am more than just a political label. Identity is not bound to our opinions or ideas. Yet, today, being challenged by an alternative viewpoint is plagued by thoughts that this opposing idea will “destroy” one’s whole identity.
However, our ability to consider others’ thoughts and champion our own philosophy promotes progress. As J.S. Mill expressively stated in On Liberty, truly great individuals emerge from open fair criticism, something that many people fear will destroy them. These opposing viewpoints are essential in that they fashion the capacity to recognize ideas other than yours or my own.
The political war isn’t two sided. Many of us tend to ignore those who straddle the aisle, who think independently from any faction and internally criticize all ideas. I remain hopeful because these people still exist, to question and pressurize you to consider that you might, in all honestly, be wrong. These differences in opinion make society unique. Whatever opinions one may hold- wholly false, partly true, and wholly true- all benefit the common good.
Why should people be hopeful about our political future? We are blessed to live in a country that upholds the freedom of opinion and will continue to do so because of the founding doctrine that this nation was built upon.
It is important to remember that as we head into a new administration that you are more than just a person with a rigid political identity. There is no correct way to think.
Every thought is just as likely to be flawed as the next. But despite this, mutual criticism of opinions and public discussion, no matter what side, are the hope for prosperity during this upcoming term.
Join a friendly debate, think genuinely about your personal opinions, and don’t be afraid to take criticism. No matter what happens in the future, just remember to consider the opinions of others because they might transform into your own.
