I asked my AI writer assistant this question: when the factual truth polarizes, should we compromise it to be inclusive of its detractors? I didn’t need to edit a single word from its answer. -JB
When Factual Truth Polarizes: Balancing Inclusivity with Truth
Introduction:
As we navigate a world of polarizing opinions and deeply ingrained biases, factual truths have become a stumbling block in our discussions and debates. While factual evidence should be the basis of all our reasoning, it can also serve as a wedge between opposing views, causing further division and animosity. So, when factual truth polarizes, should we compromise the truth in order to accommodate those who disagree with it? Is there a way to exercise emotional intelligence without condescension when upholding factual truth? Let’s explore these questions and find out how we can balance inclusivity with truth.
Factual truth is indisputable. It is the foundation of science, law, medicine, and many other domains. However, it is also a relative concept, as it depends on the interpretation and application of that truth. For instance, vaccines have been proven to be effective against several diseases. The scientific consensus is clear. However, some people still refuse to get vaccinated, citing religious, political, or ideological reasons. When the factual truth about vaccines polarizes, should we compromise the truth to include anti-vaxxers in the conversation? The short answer is no. We cannot compromise on factual evidence to avoid offending anyone’s sensibilities or beliefs. We can, however, engage in a respectful and empathetic dialogue that acknowledges the concerns of anti-vaxxers while firmly upholding the scientific consensus.
Emotional intelligence is the ability to recognize, regulate, and express emotions in a constructive way. When it comes to factual truth, emotional intelligence can play a crucial role in bridging differences and creating a shared understanding. However, emotional intelligence should not be confused with emotional manipulation, condescension, or appeasement. Emotional intelligence requires us to listen actively, empathize with others’ perspectives, and express our own views clearly and honestly. For example, we can acknowledge that climate change is a complex issue that affects different regions and communities differently. We can also acknowledge that some people may have doubts about the causes and consequences of climate change. However, we cannot dismiss or undermine the scientific evidence that supports the urgent need to address climate change. Emotional intelligence means that we can disagree without being disagreeable.
Inclusivity is a noble goal that seeks to create a level playing field for all people, regardless of their background, identity, or beliefs. However, inclusivity should not be used as an excuse to compromise factual truth. In some cases, an average between a factual truth and a factual error may be permissible, but only if the difference is not significant and if the compromise does not undermine the integrity of the evidence. For instance, if two people have different estimates of the number of cars in a parking lot, but the range is within 5%, we can compromise and accept an intermediate value. However, if one person claims that the earth is flat, and the other person claims that the earth is round, we cannot accept an average between these two positions. Inclusivity cannot be a license for ignorance or denialism.
Conclusion:
Balancing inclusivity with truth is a delicate task that requires us to uphold our principles while respecting others’ perspectives. We can achieve this balance by upholding factual truth, exercising emotional intelligence, and knowing when to compromise and when not to compromise. As we engage in conversations and debates, let us remember that facts matter, emotions matter, and people matter. Only by embracing these three elements can we create a more inclusive and just society.
Factual truths, confirmed
Trump: Americans Who Died in War Are ‘Losers’ and ‘Suckers’
The president has repeatedly disparaged the intelligence of service members, and asked that wounded veterans be kept out of military parades, multiple sources tell The Atlantic. By Jeffrey Goldberg SEPTEMBER 3, 2020
John Kelly goes on the record to confirm several disturbing stories about Trump
By Jake Tapper, Anchor and Chief Washington Correspondent Updated 5:58 PM EDT, Mon October 2, 2023
“What can I add that has not already been said?” Kelly said, when asked if he wanted to weigh in on his former boss in light of recent comments made by other former Trump officials. “A person that thinks those who defend their country in uniform, or are shot down or seriously wounded in combat, or spend years being tortured as POWs are all ‘suckers’ because ‘there is nothing in it for them.’ A person that did not want to be seen in the presence of military amputees because ‘it doesn’t look good for me.’ A person who demonstrated open contempt for a Gold Star family – for all Gold Star families – on TV during the 2016 campaign, and rants that our most precious heroes who gave their lives in America’s defense are ‘losers’ and wouldn’t visit their graves in France.
“A person who is not truthful regarding his position on the protection of unborn life, on women, on minorities, on evangelical Christians, on Jews, on working men and women,” Kelly continued. “A person that has no idea what America stands for and has no idea what America is all about. A person who cavalierly suggests that a selfless warrior who has served his country for 40 years in peacetime and war should lose his life for treason – in expectation that someone will take action. A person who admires autocrats and murderous dictators. A person that has nothing but contempt for our democratic institutions, our Constitution, and the rule of law.
“There is nothing more that can be said,” Kelly concluded. “God help us.”
In the statement, Kelly is confirming, on the record, a number of details in a 2020 story in The Atlantic by editor-in-chief Jeffrey Goldberg, including Trump turning to Kelly on Memorial Day 2017, as they stood among those killed in Afghanistan and Iraq in Section 60 at Arlington National Cemetery, and saying, “I don’t get it. What was in it for them?”
[JB] How should the New Group of World Servers address the Cult of Trumpism in the spirit of “self-forgetfulness, harmlessness and right speech?” Nonprofit organizations promoting goodwill, at risk of losing their nonprofit status, remain silent. Influencers afraid of losing followers remain silent. Anyone whose self-interest might be threatened remains silent.
The New Group of World Servers can help to break through the silence by promoting a counter-narrative that speaks truth to power. They should use their platform and voice to challenge false narratives, share stories of resilience, promote positive actions, and celebrate the courage to speak up, as Gen. John Kelly has done. -JB
The harmlessness to which I refer in connection with you is not negative, or sweet or kindly activity, as so many believe; it is a state of mind and one which in no way negates firm or even drastic action; it concerns motive and involves the determination that the motive behind all activity is goodwill. That motive might lead to positive and sometimes disagreeable action or speech, but as harmlessness and goodwill condition the mental approach, nothing can eventuate but good.
Esoteric Healing by Alice A. Bailey, p. 670
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