I think I am able to see both (or more) sides of any topic. I could make a good, convincing argument for either side. Including the side I think is wrong.
I don't normally do it in public because I don't want to be taken out of context and have people think I'm arguing for something I'm not. Yes, it happens anyway, but there's no reason to make it easier.
I don't actually enjoy being able to see all sides so easily. It's uncomfortable and inconvenient.
Just because I can see all sides doesn't mean I haven't decided one side is more correct than the others- obviously, in the majority of cases, I have.
This doesn't stop me from considering any new arguments that are presented- it's just that new arguments I haven't already considered, mulled, pondered, (dozens of times) and then rejected because they didn't hold up, are nearly non-existent.
But, internally, I can sympathize with those on the opposite side from me because I understand where they are coming from.
I can completely understand why the anti-immigrant people feel the way they do, while recognizing how and why they are wrong.
The same goes for the anti-gun people.
I don't avoid talking to them. That doesn't mean they'll listen to anything I say, because they are apparently incapable of seeing, much less considering, the opposite side.
This is disappointing to me. I feel as though I made an effort they are unwilling to make- to understand the other side. Plus, there's truth in the saying "give them an inch, and they'll take a mile".
I expect more of them, even if it's an unreasonable expectation. That's why, if I engage with them at all, I come down harder than I might otherwise.
Tips are nice.
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