It fascinates me that some people label themselves as this or that, and dig a trench within those limits, making it deeper and deeper until they are so entrenched in it they cannot peer over the edge to see beyond.
This happens in every area, across history.
It happens with tribes, nations, religions, politics and on and on. People often see anyone not in their trench not only as wrong, but as evil, the extreme other.
Heated arguments, loud name calling, distortions/lies, violence, wars ensue.
We can find a myriad of examples in history, some seem humorous to us here in their future. But it seems more difficult to see our own trenches, our biases, those brings we say "of course it is...."
I like John Weekly's thought:
But, in a deep trench, the definition of what is good differs, and there is resistance to listening to other ways to look at something.
At the risk of upsetting you, I'm going to offer two hot button examples.
1) The discussion of trans people in girl's sports. One side says they have rights to identify as whatever sex to which they feel affinity without discrimination. The other side says girls who have been training for years are losing medals and scholarships to biological males. Testosterone based bodies have an unfair advantage. Plus, it is upsetting to girls seeing naked men in their locker room and showers
What is the higher good? It needs to be so both sides win. How about a Trans Athletic Association? Or some other solution not thought of yet.
2) The discussion over immigration. One side says let anyone who comes in, give them services and perks, don't screen them. It is racist to keep them out or send them back, even the criminals. The other side says we cannot afford unlimited immigration. We have laws about how to do it. People who don't follow the rule of law are not good candidates to become American. Let them leave or return them to their country, and then let them apply for visas and return legally.
What is the higher good? It needs to be good for all concerned as far as possible. How about sponsor programs in poor countries to teach skills so the people can prosper surrounded by their friends and family? Or some other solution not yet thought of.
Let's stop shouting at each other and seek meaningful solutions for our problems.