Discussion in a Democratic Society

Discussions are very important for growth and learning. In the article it says “discussion is a particularly wonderful way to explore supposedly settled questions and to develop a fuller appreciation for the multiplicity of human experience and knowledge.” To me this shows that without discussion we think we have a great understanding of the world around us, however, this is closed minded and we really have no way of looking at the world other than what we know. When we spend time with others and talk about things we think we know then we learn all sorts of things that could help us grow. However, it does not just take talk to other people because we also have to listen to what others have to say. We all have the right to express our views but we also need to listen in order to grow. By giving knowledge you also need to open yourself up to knowledge being given. It cannot just be you talking and then tuning out when the other talks.

When we grow up we all have someone taking care of us in some way. Now as adults we are the ones “taking care of us” but without that person taking care of us we would have died long ago. This applies to discussion because you need other people to share their knowledge and experiences to help you grow more. In a way they are “taking care” of our knowledge and intellectual growth.  It is also natural to share what we know with the people that are around us. If we didn't share than we would not be communicating with anyone. It is so much fun to talk to people and to learn from them, even if at the time of the discussion you don’t agree with what they are saying you should still listen and maybe you can change your mind or learn something new. Personal growth is about learning.