Anytime there’s a political campaign, there’s a lot of mud slinging. Depending on which networks we watch or articles we read, the spin is always different.
Blogs can take on the same type of controversy.
Todays Lesson
I read and subscribe to dozens of blogs because I agree with the author’s viewpoint. I read the posts, nod in agreement and post a comment that basically says, “Right on”.
I then click on other commenter’s links, check out their blogs, and find another blogger who thinks like I do. Again I leave a comments saying “Right On!”, and subscribe.
Currently, I’m following a large group of like minded bloggers.
The political races got me thinking (I do a lot of that). 🙂
In the past when I would land on a blog and the author didn’t “think” the same as me, I would click off of the site, stew for awhile, and say (to myself), “They’re wrong”.
It was when I took time to contemplate their opposing views, I realized what they had posted was often valid. Rereading their words was like a slap upside the head.
I had my blinders on and was only seeing what I wanted to see.
I’ve now added more blogs to my reader, incorporating some with opposing views. Although I may not always agree with the words, it allows me to see a bigger picture and expands my knowledge base.
Today’s Assignment
What is your first reaction when you read an opposing viewpoint?
Are you apt to comment and have your say, or do you just leave?
Photo Credit: Hans Dekker’s photostream
It’s an interesting point, Barbara.
At first, I might be tempted to click away from a blog that doesn’t represent what I think. After all, there are likely many others that do.
But, on reflection, I actually agree with your attitude.
In life, we don’t automatically reject other people who have opposing, or different views, to ourselves. We argue with them, we debate – and, ultimately, we respect each other’s freedom of speech. In fact, I have many friends who don’t have the same views as me on certain topics, as I’m sure we all have.
It would be a very boring blogosphere if every blogger expressed the same ideals.
Perhaps, if we don’t agree with a particular viewpoint, instead of leaving, we should constructively add to the conversations?
Opposites attract, but similarities bind. When I hit opposing views, I first ask myself – “how might that be true?” … it helps build a bridge.
For debate, it’s helpful to distinguish between facts and opinions. Facts you look up in an encyclopedia; opinions, you have to establish criteria to evaluate.
One of the best books on rhetoric (arguing w/out anger) is – Thank You For Arguing. It’s brilliant.
Hi Scott,
You’re right. In real life we have friends with different view points, friends who might not even have an interest in what we blog about, but we don’t dismiss them. Like you said, we respect them.
Adding to a comment to a blog we may disagree with is a great way to not only add to the conversation, but to share a different point of view with the author, as well.
Hi Bamboo,
Political blogs! I’ve read a few of them recently and some of what’s being written is cruel and hateful. It’s actually sad.
Yes, even though we may disagree with our friends, we still love them for who they are. Their viewpoints shouldn’t make a difference. I think it’s similar when we find a blogger whom we respect. We may disagree with what they write, but we respect them as a human being.
Hi J.D.
I like how you put that, “I first ask myself – “how might that be true?” … it helps build a bridge.”. It does build a bridge, doesn’t it?
The book, “Thank You For Arguing”, have you reviewed that on your blog yet? If so, I’d love to read the post.
Interesting question you bring up.
I don’t subscribe to any political blogs… Come to think of it, most of the blogs I subscribe to are about blogging, writing, self improvement, humor, or just general thought.
That being the case, they most often are not controversial. When they do say something I do not agree with, I may leave a comment respectfully adding my viewpoints.
I don’t mind if a blog disagrees with me. If they have good stuff, they have good stuff.
Adding to what Scott said, I too have friends who I disagree with on say politics… So what? A friendship should be based on something far deeper than that.
To be honest, I don’t really disagree with many things, I’m the kind of guy that just wants to please everyone every time.
But usually when I do read something that isn’t to my liking, I will just leave and not think twice about that person’s viewpoint.
Although, after reading your article I will be taking my time in understanding how other people might be right and how I can occasionally be wrong.
Rajaie AlKorani’s last blog post..MonkeyBlogger.com For Sale
For me, it depends on the issues in question. I think their are so many issues that are hyped up by the media that are just really not that important. And then their are so many very important (at least in my eyes) issues that are just swept under the rug. So often times I will read about something that I disagree with but don’t really care about (this seems to happen more an more).
See, I used to be all about politics and I fallowed it every second of every day. I ‘knew all the issues’ and could debate anything. Then I realized how much time I wasted paying attention to ‘the latest issue’ that was old news the fallowing day. It was just a roller coaster ride that the media would take me on. So now, if the issue is something that really hits me at the core I will comment and kind of ‘debate the issue’. But otherwise, I’m out of there.
It can be a real knock down as I have witnessed one of my pupils having their beliefs crashed in seconds. I once asked my pupils to do research (what is an autoresponder) and then they had to write an article about what they have learned online.
I just started to read her article – then I stopped and told her that the info she got was totally wrong and based on someone’s sales page who taught her that you build a mailing list by buying free leads :-0
I have a teachable spirit and I believe that helps me a lot in life.
I’m rethinking how I comment now Barbara!
I tend to comment like how you have in the past – on those I agree with. And tend to read less of things I think differ from my viewpoint. But, we probably should let more of the differing viewpoints in – they are all potential areas for growth. Maybe it’s because we don’t fully understand, or know the background leading up to the discussion. In any rate, I’m going to attempt to share my views more often, even when they differ from what the author has written. It’s probably a growing experience for both parties involved.
Hi Barbara!
For me, blogging relationships are like off-line relationships – I’d tend to try to find common ground, when commenting.
If a blog was full of things I disagreed with and I didn’t get the feeling I wanted to get involved, I’d click off it.
I ran across a blog post where the author and I disagreed, but I failed to recognize the “conflict bait” for what it was. He wanted nothing more than a chance to show off his knowledge to those who disagreed. Starting a fight is easy; building friendships amid disagreement is hard. So, yes, I read opposing viewpoints and sometimes comment, but I try not to respond to those purposely looking for a fight.
SpaceAgeSage’s last blog post..What mysteries keep you awake at night?
The day I agree 100% with someone on everything is the day I quit. Opposing viewpoints make life interesting.
Of course, some people take it too far with personal attacks, but if you play nice, everything is fine.
Hunter Nuttall’s last blog post..Akashic Record Reading With Akemi Gaines, Part 2
I prefer to come across opposing viewpoints, if for no other reason than they help me to crystalize my own thoughts. Sometimes, they lead me in a different direction, or illuminate the error in my judgement.
I don’t mind opposing views, and I will have my say. I do try to put it in a Love Sandwhich (positive, negative, positive) though out of respect for the author. In other words, I abhor flaming (ha! I am learning the lingo!). However, if I find the site is consistently contrary to my core value system (this is different from opposing views) then I will drop it from my reading list.
Urban Panther’s last blog post..Acting under pressure
This is a thought provoking post. My focus (and excitement) right now is finding like-minded bloggers who share the same passions as I do. Blogs with opposing viewpoints do not typically appear on my radar screen. But the thought of going outside of my comfort zone and disagreeing with someone’s view point is intriguing. I think it would be a great learning experience… but have to admit the idea stirs up some butterflies inside of me. It makes me wonder if I’m ready for someone to publicly oppose my viewpoint. But I’m up for the challenge. This week I will search for an opposing viewpoint and comment (yikes). I can’t wait to see what I learn.
Stacey / CreateaBalance’s last blog post..Drum Roll for My New Blog Roll!
Barbara,
I don’t always agree with everything I read. When that happens I use it as an opportunity to ask questions and expand my knowledge about someone else’s viewpoint. IF they are interested, I will also share my viewpoint. Sometimes that has led to an interesting exchange of respectful dialog. I don’t attempt to change another’s viewpoint or even to change my own, only to understand more about the diverse and growing world we live in. If we can agree to disagree respectfully and still learn to understand each other better and accept one another with compassion, how much better is that?
One of the incredible things about blogging is that it can take us anywhere and to any subject and to meet amazing people all over the world. The last thing I would then expect or want is for them all to be just like me. I welcome the fresh perspective.
Wendi Kelly-Life’s Little Inspirations’s last blog post..Changing Colors
Finding an opposing view point is interesting. Through conversation, sometimes I find my own view point getting even more clear.
It’s difficult for me to comment when everything that I believe in had already been written by the author. It’s easier to comment when the viewpoint is opposing. Feels as if we are having some kind of conversation rather than simply saying ‘I agree’.
Avani-Mehta’s last blog post..How Did You Form Your Current Anger Management Style – Anger Management Series II
A point worth pondering…. I used to just click off, especially if they were hateful.
However, when blogs say things that I do not agree with or think like I do, I look at it as a “belly button”. We all have one, and so just like opinions. Whether they are right or wrong, they have the right to express what they are thinking. Sometimes, I stay, read, and comment.
Other than that, good luck to the blogger with the hateful, hurtful views.
When I come across an opposing viewpoint, my first reaction is to read it over again to be sure I completely understand what the author is saying.
If I’m passionate about the topic, I may comment, but probably not.
As in the real world, I tend to stay away from discussions on politics and religion with friends or strangers.
Barbara,
Wendi Kelly tipped me off on your post today which carries similar themes to my post. I agree that in blogging, well in life we do attract those that are a lot like us. However, as you so eloquently articulated, it is not good to put on blinders and shut out divergent thought. I am convinced that many of our issues in business, politics and life would be solved much easier with honest and respectful communication. Imagine the impact of racism in America if we actually talked about it! Yet, we steer clear of these frank discussions (except with those who share our viewpoints) which has created a silo of sameness. Gee, let’s all get out of our respective corners and mix it up (nicely of course).
Karen Swim’s last blog post..September – New Beginnings
hello barbara. i don’t mind if people disagree with me or my views…i’m not always right, but my opinion is always mine. it can change as well…i like for people to challenge my thinking
what i don’t like is when someone attacks the person and not the view or the post.
that happened on my blog and i got fed up and upset because a stranger is going to tell me how to behave and question my character.
anyone is free to rip my posts apart, but i’m (ME PERSONALLY) just not open for attack.
the political world is not dealing with the issues, but attacks on personal character which does nothing but create a distraction from the real issue at hand. they don’t know how to properly apply ad hominems.
i will most likely have my say, respectfully…not attacking the person, but dealing with the post.
Natural’s last blog post..Butt-to-Gutt Ratio Gone Wild
First — I didn’t read all the comments above. Sorry!
Just here to answer Barbara’s questions. For me, my involvement depends on the perceived civility and thoughtfulness of the blogger. I love to get in the discussion with people from varying points of views if I see that 1) it’s an intelligent and thought-provoking discussion and 2) it’s civil and courteous. Otherwise, I simply leave.
ari
Ari Koinuma’s last blog post..Congratulations! You Failed.
If I land on a new blog with opposing views, I don’t comment right away. I try to wait for their next couple of posts or read their previous ones until I make a judgment.
If they make valid points even though it goes against mine, then I will follow them. If they are just ranting without any merit, I leave and don’t come back.
Excellent excellent post, Barbara.
Sometimes my reaction is anger. Sometimes my reaction is self righteousness (thinking I’m right of course!)
I’m trying to change this distorted way of thinking.
I do think there is something to the core values that Urban speaks of, and Natural alludes to.
I really have a hard time with hatred and suffering. Though I realize the people who espouse these views are suffering. I just don’t know if they are open enough to hear anything different.
As I get older I realize I am running out of time and I think it’s important to leave the world a better place.
Hi Rajaie,
Yes, reading an opposing viewpoint can often make us realize our thinking might be somewhat skewed. If someone can present a good argument, I will take time to “listen”.
Hi Eric,
Political issues do change fast. Trying to stay abreast had to be difficult, and like you said, time consuming. I find with politics it comes down to core issues and a lot of the rest is just “fluff”.
Hi Gert,
Yes, having a teachable spirit is key. It’s when we say “we know it all”, problems can arise.
Hi Lance,
You got it. By reading and commenting on blogs with differing views or on subjects we’re not familiar with does lead to growth.
Hi Writer Dad,
I agree, opposing viewpoints do help us to discover thinking errors of our own.
Hi Robin,
Like you, there are some blogs I prefer not to visit, especially if they’re real negative.
Hi Urban Panther,
A love sandwich? I’ve never heard of that before, but it certainly is a great idea.
Yes, blogs that are contrary to our core value system, are different than blogs that offer opposing views.
Hi Stacey,
I like that you are taking this assignment a step further and will search for a blog that posts opposing viewpoints. When you have a chance, come back and let us know how the experiment went and what you learned.
Hi Wendi,
I hear you. A good discussion that respects each persons viewpoint can be a great learning experience. As in real life, showing compassion and kindness is key.
Hi SpaceAgeSage,
You’ve raised a great point. Many bloggers will purposely publish a controversial article. This is a tactic that used to draw attention to a blog and increase readership. Like you said, when you know the post is being used as “bait”, often it’s best to click off.
Hi Linda,
Yes, we all are entitled to our opinions. Like you, I don’t like reading hateful blogs. It makes me wonder if the author is actually that bitter about life, or if they’re just trying to get a reaction from others.
Hi Hunter,
I agree, it would be awfully boring if we agreed with someone 100% of the time.
Hi Linda Abbit,
Haha! Yes, staying away from discussions regarding politics and religion is a wise decision (unless you both agree). Those can get extremely heated.
Hi Avani,
Good point. When we read content from like minded people and nod in agreement, often there’s not much left to say.
Hi Karen,
Welcome to the BWAB community.
You know, you hit the nail on the head. If people could sit down, talk rationally, and really listen to the opposing side, many important issues could be solved. If we can learn we don’t always have to be right, and the parties could learn to compromise, the results could be phenomenal.
Hi Natural,
I like how you put that, “my opinion is always mine…it can change”.
I agree, blog posts are often written to discuss an issue. Although we may have our name on them, does not make it right to attack an author, personally. Your example of the political world nails it.
Hi Chris,
Yes, Blogs that are constant rants, do become a waste of time. Like you, I would leave and not go back.
Hi Ellen,
Thank you.
I agree with the core value issue. With regard to words of hatred, it does make us wonder “why”, and like you said, those people may not be open to hear anything different.
Hi Catherine,
Reading blogs on subjects that are new to us is a great way to stretch our minds, isn’t it? On that note, that’s where the internet is so powerful.
Yes, some readers will try and twist our words, or comment without reading the post. In those cases, we’re often put on the defensive as we explain “that’s NOT what I said”.
Hi Ari,
There’s no need to apologize for not reading the other comments. I’m just happy you’re here to share your thoughts.
I agree, having a discussion that’s civil and courteous is important. Getting involved in one that doesn’t show the author or commenter respect (for their opinion) often becomes a wasted exercise of rants.
Hi Rita,
**smiles** No 25 hours days for me, but I’m enjoying having a variety of subjects to choose from.
Blogs may not be the best source for accurate political news, but they sure are popular at this point in history.
Although you are trying to reduce your online presence, I do appreciate you taking the time to view my “New Blog Of The Week” (NBOTW).
Hi Barbara – I like reading opposing viewpoints – so long as they’re not into anything really weird, harmful, or hateful. I’ve been trying to write bits of my novel in various different viewpoints, to see if I can come up with something more interesting – it helps a lot.
Also, I like reading blogs on subjects I’d never heard about or don’t understand. I think it helps stretch your mind. Robin’s Lets Live Forever is a lot like that. I’d never even thought of my body living hundreds of years before I started reading and i like reading her articles.
I will comment if I don’t agree and I don’t mind when folk disagree with what I say either – so long as they don’t try to twist my words to mean the opposite. And especially if the subject is a controversial one.
Ones I won’t stay on are hatred type sites etc, or really obscene. I came across one once and the blogger obviously hated women – I never went back to that one.
Barb,
I admire you greatly. Where you get that 25th hour in the day to subscribe to blogs of people whose views are disagreeable to you, I’ll never know.
Especially with politics, I have absolutely no interest in reading another blogger’s point of view with which I do not agree. Almost always, blogs are based on personal opinion, and I already have my opinions, and have pretty much stayed away from those whose views differ greatly from mine. A blog is NOT the best source of “political news,” I have found.
Regarding other issues, there are some blogs that I read merely for the great writing. I will not leave comments on many occasions.
With my “usual” blogroll, I will almost always leave a comment. Occasionally I might disagree with a post, and I will say why.
I don’t consider myself closed-minded. But at my age, I have my opinions and I welcome others to have theirs. If I am going to read an opposing opinion, it will be in the NY Times or Newsweek – what some may think of as “the liberal media,”but both of which I generally find balanced. Each day I am trying to find LESS blogs to go to, rather than more. I don’t pay much attention to numbers, but I DO appreciate everyone who reads my blog – whether they agree with me or not. But I am finding that I miss too much of my life OUTSIDE of the blogosphere since I started blogging, and would rather spend my time there.
One exception: I will ALWAYS give your “blog of the week” a thorough look-see. Most have been to my liking, and I continue to add them to my reader.
Thank you,
Rita
Rita’s last blog post..The Final Chapter – Part 8,627 (give or take…)
If the blog is high quality, I do tend to stick around and comment even if I don’t agree with the author’s point of view.
LOL Barbara – you did that to me yesterday. Sorry, I thought I’d read it properly. I don’t want you to think I’m skimming your posts.
You made me think Barbara. Typically, I just politely leave without making a comment. However, I’m sure I could make a very lasting impression if I respectfully leave my own opinion and am open to learning. I think it depends a lot on what exactly it is I disagree with as to whether or not I will leave a comment or not.
Jennifer’s last blog post..Change Your Life One Thought at a Time – Part 4
It depends on the level of disagreement. If I can see their rational position, even if I don’t agree I’ll stick around. There are many blogs I read that I don’t see eye to eye with all the time. I do tend to keep my mouth shut, though. Even though it’s a comment on another blog, I don’t want others (especially those who may disagree with me and be irritated with me) to follow me to my blog and bring it to my blog. I try to avoid contraverial issues on my blog. I don’t want that to harm what I am trying to do. Some people love the contravery and debate and that’s fine. That’s the purpose of their blog and I respect that.
Hi Vered,
You’re right. If a blog is high quality and well written, it often entices us to stick around even if we don’t agree with the author.
Hi Catherine,
LOL, I know you’ve had the same thing happen on your blog where your words weren’t ready correctly, so I know you understand what I’m saying.
Hi Jennifer,
Yes, your opinion could make a difference. Sometimes the author’s thinking is skewed, and by us leaving a comment with our thoughts. we may help them to open their mind to opposing viewpoints, as well.
Jennifer reminded me of something…
As a reminder to all who are reading this, remember even though we don’t agree with the author, it is their blog. Just as we want others to respect our “home” in blogosphere, show the same respect when visiting others.
Hi Annie,
You do bring up a good point. There are some topics we do feel aren’t anyone else’s business. Not commenting is the best way to handle those situations.
Hi Debbie,
You know, I never thought of that, but some could follow us back to our blogs and create problems for us. All the more reason to write our comments (opposing views) carefully and respectfully.
Hi Ann,
Now that you’re using your new blog address, your comment went into moderation. I wasn’t ignoring you. 🙂
Yes, hateful comments are a huge turn off. When I see that, I’m gone.
Hi Barbara: I take an AA approach to blogs: you take what works for you and leave the rest. There are lots of bloggers out there I respect and have learned from, despite the fact that we have different values and lifestyles. As Linda said, as long as the content/comments aren’t hateful, I’m okay with different opinions.
Hi Barbara –
What is your first reaction when you read an opposing viewpoint? It depends on the subject. If it’s something I’m passionate about, I might have a bit more harsh noise going on in my head about it. If not, and I don’t find it all that interesting, likely I’ll just shrug my shoulders and head on to the next one.
I do like reading opposing views, though. Often, when presented well, they make one think and can either reinforce ones own beliefs or even sway them, if only in part.
Are you apt to comment and have your say, or do you just leave? I don’t usually comment in those situations. Number 1 because when I’m passionate about something like that, I might say something I really, really shouldn’t. And Number 2 because I believe some things are just nobody’s business but my own (religion, politics and finances among them).
~ Annie
Hi Sara,
Yes, often when we marry or enter into a relationship, we are introduced to opposing viewpoints.
Comment sections may not be the best format for a heated debate, however, leaving a polite comment stating your view point is of the opposite of that which is written, is often expected on posts that take a strong stand on an issue.
Hi Blogger Dad,
As a blog author, it’s our responsibility to weigh those decisions. Would posting a funny clip change the dynamics of your community? Only you know the answer to that.
You’re right. We often land on blogs and can sense the author projects a “don’t argue with me” attitude. Being close minded will only drive readers away.
And yes, I agree, humor can cover tons of blogging sins.
Hey Barbara — no, I haven’t posted any Thank You For Arguing nuggets yet, but I will. It’s one of those books that really rocked my world.
Marrying into different views certainly helped me take the blinders off, and I’m incredibly grateful for it. It took me years to learn that there’s a whole world of smart, educated people who just don’t happen to agree with me. 🙂
At this point, I love reading opposing viewpoints. However, I would be less likely to comment, since I’m not interested in heated exchanges via comment sections. It just doesn’t seem like a good format for debate.
Great post, as I’ve been contemplating posting a link to a funny Daily Show clip, but I don’t know how my readership will respond. I’m not afraid of offending anyone, mind you. However, I’ve come to enjoy the positive vibe that my site and readership are involved in. It’s kinda’ like a big extended family. Part of me wants to keep the blog a non-political place where people will be comfortable visiting and discussing topics.
My first reaction to a blog of an opposing viewpoint depends greatly on the attitude of the blogger. Are they close minded and unwilling to entertain that they might not know everything about everything? Are the posts well written? Do the posts make valid points? Does the blogger hold their own party accountable when there is a glaring inconsistency in action versus words or in some cases, words versus words, or do they become apologists defending the party line at all costs?
If the blogger is close minded and unwilling to engage in intellectual discourse, then I will likely be turned off. The only exception is if the blogger writes REALLY funny stuff. Humor can cover a multitude of blogging sins.
As for your other question, I don’t engage in online debates. I’ve become a bit burned out by all the political finger wagging.
Blogger Dad’s last blog post..The history of every day
Hi Alex,
3rd post? There must be a lot of us bloggers on the same wave length. 🙂
Although I add blogs to my reader from authors who have differing viewpoints, I also need to feel some type of “connection”.
Hi Evelyn,
The values of the blog author are important to me, too. If their viewpoint differs, I don’t mind, as long as they respect my response.
Hi J.D.
When you do your review, please let me know so I can read it. I have you in my reader, but I don’t want to miss it. Thanks.
This is the third post this week on this theme – how weird is that…
Anyway, my marketing plan includes adding new blogs to my reader every day. I have to make quick decisions as to whether I’ll stick around a blog or no, and honestly, if I don’t feel an instant mesh with the blog, I go away.
I’m the same at a party – if someone is talking about something that I disagree with, I let them talk, but I don’t stick around to listen. I’m not a debater.
Now, if someone who is already my friend says something I disagree with, I’ll add my own opinion in, but I won’t negate their own (unless they’re being bigoted in some way then I point that out) – like the “how we write” conversation I had with Pen Men the other day in the comments to one post.
Frankly, I won’t bother to read a blog that do not share the same interest or values as me. I’ve already got so many blogs that are in alignment to what I think, to read on a daily basis. It doesn’t matter to me if someone holds a different view. We all have different realities, so viewpoints can differ.
Evelyn Lim’s last blog post..An Enchanting Vision From My Angels
Hi Barbara,
The last two weeks (DNC, RNC) have really been apropos to your post! I actually follow both conservative and liberal blogs, as well as being subscribed to both Obama’s and McCain’s email lists. I *thrive* on listening to all sides of the issues to help me shape (or reaffirm) my beliefs.
Al at 7P’s last blog post..The Criminally-Minded Approach for Achieving Goals
Hi Barbara
>What is your first reaction when you read an opposing viewpoint?
I like it. I like to test my theories and assumptions and that’s made possible by heading into the wind.
>Are you apt to comment and have your say, or do you just leave
If I’ve taken the time to read it, I’ll likely take the few moments to reply to it.
best wishes,
Rick
Dr. K´s last blog post..Life Skills – Quick! Think Fast!