We live in a world where issues arise more often than the sun. Naturally, discussions become associated with these issues.

Most people who follow the controversies of world seem to have specific stances on each respective topic. Along with that, people tend to develop their own way of thinking.

Debates have become a normal part of our social culture.

From professional debates to internet trolls, everyone likes to represent their opinion and stance.

Is this a good thing, though? Is it good to have such a wide difference of opinion on certain subjects?

The reality is, it is absolutely necessary for people to think differently than others, especially in a place like the U.S.

If everyone just chose to think about government and social policies in the same way, there wouldn’t be much advancement associated with our history.

For example, had certain citizens not found slavery to be wrong and oppressive, I probably wouldn’t be writing this article right now.

So, it’s been established that standing strong with what you believe to be right is a good American quality to have.

But, what if someone has a different opinion than you? Should you do all you can to change their mind and completely disregard their reasoning?

Well, just like you, they find their opinion to be reasonable. Even if it’s something you feel passionately about, everyone is entitled to their own opinion.

When it comes to debating, the motive should not be to change the other person’s mind.

Personally, I have a strong stance on certain things that I know for a fact people disagree with me on.

I have heard argument after argument in favor of the opposition but even after hearing those arguments, most of which are reasonable and on strong ground, my mind isn’t changed in the slightest amount.

For example, a friend of mine by the name Chris emphasized his opinion of the song titled “Take On Me” by a-ha.

He said it is the “greatest song ever made.”

I kindly and respectfully disagreed with him, though I would put the song in my top 100.

Despite hearing another opinion, especially one that is supported by some consensus, my mind was not changed in any way.

This isn’t ignorance or stubbornness, it’s just being a normal person.

Sure, there have been cases where someone has altered my opinion with a supported stance, but it’s usually because I didn’t have a strong hold on my original opinion.

Nonetheless, more often than not, I’m going to stick with the opinion I’ve developed on topics of discussion. Everyone should hold strong to their opinions while also respecting the opinions of others.

No matter how invalid and ignorant an opinion may be, everyone is entitled to their own.

So the point here is that we should all agree to disagree more often.

Elias Albert is a junior journalism major. He can be reached at 581-2812 or ewalbert@eiu.edu.