No one has a corner on Truth. No matter what we know, we can only think from our own brains using our own experiences. What is patently “true” for me may not be for you – including these words! John Locke wrote in his essay “Of the Conduct of Understanding” that we are all short-sighted and often see but one side of the issues in play. He advises us to seek out conversation partners of different background and different view and to listen to them with respect, without regard for their intellectual capacity or station in life. He writes, “…it is not incongruous to think nor beneath any man to try whether another may not have notions of things which have escaped him and which his reason would make use of if they came into his mind.”
ASSIGNMENT:
Throughout this week, as you grapple with issues or develop approaches to problems, seek dialogue with those who look at the situation differently from yourself.
Record and reflect on your observations. What do you find? Does Locke’s observation help or hinder your ability to reason? Blog on your experiences.
ASSIGNMENT:
Throughout this week, as you grapple with issues or develop approaches to problems, seek dialogue with those who look at the situation differently from yourself.
- Can you make the conversation feel safe for those involved?
- At what points do you disagree?
- Are you using words that carry different meanings or nuances?
- What goals do you share?
- Does it help understanding to talk about reasons for prioritizing different goals?
Record and reflect on your observations. What do you find? Does Locke’s observation help or hinder your ability to reason? Blog on your experiences.