Opinions

In today's society people seem to not grasp the definition of an opinion. Some choose to think that they are the only ones that can be right about a topic, and if you don't see eye to eye with them you are terribly wrong. The Dictionary defines Opinion as 'A belief or conclusion held with confidence but not substantiated by positive knowledge or proof'. To me this would mean that I can believe something, but I do not have any firm proof to back it up. If I did then it would be known as a fact. Everyone is entitled to his or her own opinion, and whether or not you agree with it doesn't make it right or wrong. People seem to forget that fact, especially when dealing with controversial topics such as politics or religion. Why do they think they are the only one that is entitled to an opinion? Could it be they do not want to acknowledge the other side of the argument? For example lets just say we are discussing abortion. Everyone and their brother have an opinion on this subject. Does the fact that I don't agree with abortion and think it should be outlawed mean that I am one hundred percent correct? Certainly not, it means that this is one opinion out of millions.

I have seen the most disagreements on opinions happen on line in web forums or chat rooms. The arguments get very heated and usually people end up saying terrible hateful things to each other. Did this solve anything? Probably not, did the other person change their opinion? Most likely no, so why do we continue to criticize other people's opinions? Do we do this to feel better about ourselves? I don't feel better when someone tells me my opinion is wrong and then continues to belittle me for not agreeing with them, Do you? The great thing about freedom of speech means we are each able to express our opinions. We are free to tell whomever we want how we feel about certain topics or beliefs and shouldn't have to worry about be judged or criticized. Now don't get me wrong there is nothing wrong with a good civil debate on something you feel strong about. There comes a time when everyone has to face their opinion might not always be right. Lets say you think a certain sports team is the best ever, and they can't be beaten. In all reality they can and will be beaten at some time. This doesn't mean you should bash anyone that says anything against your team; instead you should offer you opinion and then try to give them some reason for why you think they are the best team. This is the same when dealing with any subject. You will not change some one's opinion by calling them names and degrading them. This will only make them feel stronger about their own opinion.

The next time you are talking with someone or reading something on line and you find you don't agree with the person's opinion think twice before you reply telling them how wrong they are. Consider offering your opinion and then backing it up with the reason you feel like you do. Act like a grown up and refrain from name calling and criticizing (unless its something constructive). By doing this people are going to be more inclined to listen to your opinion and maybe even consider changing their minds on the way they feel. The world would be quite a boring place if we all agreed on every topic. Everyone is entitled to their opinions and beliefs and should never be put down because of the way they feel. We have all heard the old saying 'Opinions are like A**H***s, everyone has one'.