Metadata - All of us have the right to have opinions, but in a way so as not to cause harm to others. It is important to have well-informed opinions, with an open mind, and by keeping your biases aside. 

How do you form an opinion? Is it formed quickly or slowly over time? 

 

The world-famous Greek philosopher Plato had a very interesting thing to say about opinions. According to him, "Opinion is the medium between knowledge and ignorance". 

 

In today's times, we are quick to form opinions. "That dog has sharp teeth. He must be dangerous." " She is not good at studies. She must have a mental disability." We are all guilty of judging others and establishing opinions without knowing the truth. 

 

Everyone has opinions. It is their right to have them. Different opinions pave way for healthy discussions and arguments, which can pave the way to a better understanding. Opinions are also ways to understand an individual's psyche towards a particular topic. Though having opinions is not wrong, having a wrong one is. An opinion that is biased and judgemental can cause distress to the person involved, and can also mislead people if it is imposed on a group of people. This is what Plato meant when he said the above words. An opinion should be based on knowledge of the topic and correct understanding to make an impact in society. 

 

Let us understand what opinions are and how we can create them correctly for a more inclusive and constructive society. 

 

What is an opinion?

 

According to a standard English dictionary, an opinion is a form of judgement or a view, which is usually not based on facts or knowledge. 

 

Therefore, we typically form opinions based on our beliefs, judgements, and biases on the topic without understanding the truth. An opinion that is based on people's assumptions and biases can only lead to arguments and misunderstandings.

 

How to form an opinion? 

 

A well-rounded opinion should be made with an open mind, based on all the facts and information on the subject or person. It should never be based on hearsay or your own biases. 

 

Before forming an opinion, it may be wise to- 

 

• Take time and research the topic in depth.

• Talk to others who have had a similar experience. 

• Consider the source of the information to check its authenticity.

• Consider the motive of the person before considering the information.

• Listen to others' constructive criticism.

• Keep an open mind. 

 

How do you form an opinion? Is it formed quickly or slowly over time? 

 

You see a new neighbour in your society. He/she may have tattoos on their body. How much time do you take to form an opinion regarding them? Do you take time to talk to the person and understand him/her better before passing judgement? No. You immediately form an opinion, thinking that they may have a careless attitude or reckless behaviour. Though this opinion of yours is harmless, it may cause problems to the person if you pass your opinion around to other people. 

 

Though it is basic human nature to form opinions quickly, it is important to understand the correct way to form opinions about others. You may take your time to understand the person, get to know them slowly over time, or talk to them before you pass a judgement on them.

 

As human beings, we are constantly judging others and comparing them with ourselves. All this without understanding the complexity it may lead to. Though having an opinion is not bad, it may be wise to get your facts right before doing so. How would you feel if someone judged you without knowing you? Let’s keep this in mind the next time we form an opinion about something or someone!