'€˜Respect'€™ the first word in debate

Does anyone remember the old phrase “respect thy neighbor?”

Lately, I’ve begun to wonder. The problem is, we don’t exactly get to choose our neighbors, peers, co-workers or family members. Everyone has had different experiences, so it’s a logical progression that the sum of those experiences will lead us to different conclusions and opinions. Thus, it’s human nature to disagree and debate.

Lately, though, I’ve seen a disturbing trend where “disagreeing” leads directly to “disliking” and sometimes even “judgment.” Have we forgotten as a society how to agree to disagree? If so, where does the animosity end?

Of course, we all know very well that we are entitled to our own opinions. And some will never let others forget that. What we do seem to forget, though, is that other people are also entitled to their own opinions, even when we don’t agree. There is no reason to be offended or threatened when someone doesn’t agree with your particular point of view. In fact, it may help us grow as humans to openly discuss topics that are crucial to our development as individuals and as a nation.

For this kind of exchange to be productive we will have to learn to stop bickering and acknowledge that each differing opinion may actually be valid, rather than taking them as personal attacks.

All too often we make assumptions about another’s morality or personality based on that person’s opinion. Instead, we should try to give people the benefit of the doubt and not judge. It is possible to disagree with another’s position without demeaning the person. Debate can be a learning experience, not just as a check on the validity of someone else’s arguments, but our own as well. That is what discussing ideals and opinions should be about. Learning over winning.

Democrats and Republicans, atheists and Christians, environmentalists and oil developers — whatever group you consider yourself to be in, you don’t have to hate or look down on another person just because you don’t share the same opinions or ideas.

Take the time to get to know your neighbors, learn from one another, listen and enjoy the debate.

Ashlee Twiford is a sophomore at Burchell High School.