Defining Yourself- Argument Blog 9.25.15

Arguments are part of everyday life. They occur when several people disagree, and are trying to show that their opinion is superior. When people argue it is usually about a topic that is relevant to both of them. If it wasn’t relevant to them, the argument would have no purpose. When arguing, people care about defending their beliefs so much that they disregard how they are viewed by other people. The beauty of this is that it reveals people’s true identities and beliefs. In a conversation, people shy away from their own beliefs to avoid confrontation. People hide their true beliefs and agree with people for the sake of agreeing with them. Everyone is entitled to their own opinion, and it is important to stand by it.

As usual, it is important to identify the purpose and what it accomplishes. In terms of arguing, there are several purposes. It reveals the truth. While it may seem like people are working against each other in argument, in a sense, they are working together. When people throw their beliefs at one another it allows others to learn from it. It is important to have several points of view because it gains perspective and allows people to see the opposite side of the spectrum. The outcome of an argument can change people’s views and build self confidence in people. Thus, arguments are more beneficial than not. Some people frown upon arguments. They associate it with a negative connotation, due to the tone of voice. This is a misconception. The tone of voice only identifies the attitude of the speaker. The true judgement comes from the context.

In a class environment, arguments are encouraged but with limitations. Teachers want their students to express their beliefs but they also want to ensure that nobody gets offended. In a sense, arguing is an art. Their is a fine line between expressing yourself and offending somebody and it is important to find a good balance. In our class, we practice our arguing skills regularly in fight club. We do this because it is important to discuss controversial topics. In some cases, I am not sure of which side I support at the beginning of the argument, but after I listen to people’s arguments I always find my way. This is the true purpose of arguments. To learn and grow. To validate your beliefs or change them. The way professors respond to arguments is rather interesting. In most cases, professors let the argument run its course for those very reasons. For a change, they want to see the students learn from each other rather than their teacher. While it is important for  teachers to control the aggression, it is essential that they don’t control the passion.

Arguments define me. It’s important to defend the things you care about and not just blend into the crowd. For example, I am a huge supporter of high school sports, which is evident in my upcoming research paper. I know from experience that they give you invaluable life lessons which lead to a successful future. People who think that sports are just a waste of time are ignorant and it hits a nerve in me because they have no frame of reference. The topic is irrelevant to them! Thus, I will stand up for my values and argue until my point is across. Hopefully, it shines some light on them but that’s always the case. All in all, what a person argues about defines what they believe in.