Hello, J. Wright,
Welcome to WDC. I found your article "Constructive Conversation issues" on the 'Review a Newbie' page.
Over the course of the article, you ask why do we lack the ability to have constructive conversations? You offer some examples of behavior that you find frustrating, for example people becoming defensive and insisting all members of group-x are one way or another. You express a desire for people to be more educated, more aware of the shades of grey and more willing to debate openly.
I appreciate the sentiment of your article and especially like the note of hope you include in the ending, where you say "Not, only, do species evolve but, so does the mind."
One thing you may want to consider, however, is a deeper exploration of the question you posed at the beginning? Why do we find it so difficult to have constructive conversations?
This is your article, so I ask you to take what you will from my opinion and ignore the rest, but I believe the first step to a constructive conversation is compassion.
If you want another person to listen to you, them you must listen to them. Not to their words, but to their fears. The things we believe are built from a lifetime of experience, they are a part of who we are, and asking us to change is like asking us to unpick the threads of our lives and re-weave a new tapestry.
This is possible to do, and when achieved can open a whole new world of possibilities. When we see the world differently, we find ourselves capable of love and connection that could never be felt when we were full of judgement and fear. It's a moving journey, but also a terrifying one.
In my life, I've found that every time I felt frustrated and wished others were as enlightened as me, I was actually harboring judgement that I needed let go of.
That being said, wanting the world to be more tolerant is a worthy goal. If you're looking for a solution, the best one I've found so far is to write. Write stories that show the world the way you see it. Show black characters who are smart and kind and funny, or gay men who are honest and strong and reliable. Wherever you see negative stereotypes, start to break them down with kick-ass stories and you'll be well on your way to making the world a better place.
Good luck, and again, welcome to WDC.
I look forward to seeing what you come up with!
Kind Regards,
- Ani
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