Multiple views aid conflict resolution

Representative image. iStock

The parable of the blind man who has no concept of the elephant, but learns to conceptualise it by touch, says it all. History is littered with wreckage ignited by clashing perspectives. Every day, communities, collaborators and corporations are rive…

A liberal education is not a panacea for conflict. It is a rigorous methodology that gives people the cognitive skills to become more thoughtful problem-solvers, innovators, citizens and leaders. Conflict flares when divergent perspectives clash. But no single perspective has a monopoly on the truth.

Appreciating the diversity of perspectives is not the same as the pop culture slogans “everything is relative” or “anything goes”. There must be ground rules, even while we question those very ground rules. These ground rules constitute critical thinking.

Critical thinking

Critical thinking is actually a collection of cognitive skills that together provide a framework for reconciling divergent perspectives, advancing wisdom and improving the lives of people. The first ingredient of critical thinking is illustrated by the blind men and the elephant.

Read more at: https://www.deccanherald.com/education/multiple-views-aid-conflict-resolution-1032730.html