The one who isolates himself fortifies his own bias and rejects sound judgement. A fool takes no delight in understanding, but only in making his opinion known. To give an answer before listening is folly and shame. The discerning person acquires knowledge, and the wise person seeks understanding. – Proverbs 18:1,2,13,15
One can always find polarizing views on the most important topics. The challenge is determining which “facts” are reliable. The danger, regarding information or misinformation, isn’t in listening, but in refusing to listen to all perspectives. When we decide that only one side has the correct information, we fortify our bias and become enemies of wisdom. I am grateful that the scripture we use to guide our lives cautions us against arrogance and isolation. Not only does it say we shouldn’t be afraid to consider every side, it warns us against entrenched ideology.
Listen! What a radical idea. Proverbs 18 states that we all have a bias. That is neither good nor bad as long as it is a starting point on the journey to greater knowledge through humility. Extremism dictates that we shut out opposing views. Wisdom says, “don’t isolate yourself from contrasting opinions. Don’t focus merely on making your opinions known. Learn to listen!” These instructions, however, are difficult to follow.
Listening to the views contrary to our own can be exhausting or infuriating. Egos can stir up emotions that make neutral discussion impossible. Learning how to relay one’s convictions calmly and clearly, while listening to the other person’s views, requires focus and skill. It can be as challenging as juggling chainsaws while balancing on a tight rope over a shark tank. If our goal is to “win the debate”, we have already forgotten the counsel of Proverbs 18. We are living in a time when wisdom is rare. May we heed the words of Proverbs 18, listen with compassion and humility, and respond with grace.