Arguing can be a powerful tool. I find that many people try to avoid arguments, or they start arguments for the wrong reason. However, arguments can be valuable. Part of the misconception may have to do with the word itself. Arguing has many negative connotations. Maybe a better word for what I am referring to is debating. Either way, it is important to understand the usefulness of such an act.
Nassim Taleb wrote in Additional Aphorisms, Rules, and Heuristics, "Business wars are typically lost by both parties, academic wars are won by both sides." Likewise, arguments of conflict are lost by both parties, but arguments of an academic nature are won by both sides. This is because, assuming each party is approaching it with good intent, each walks away more intelligent than before. It is an important capability to question one's own opinions and ideology and to expose oneself to people with different ideas.
The cognitive bias belief perseverance consists of two main parts: 1) a reluctance to seek out information that contradicts one's belief and 2) skepticism when finding contradictory information. Arguing, when done with integrity, can be a powerful way to combat against belief perseverance. It is an extremely serviceable and valuable skill to be able to change one's opinion.
This does not mean embrace a herd mentatiliy. Rather, it is about having an open mind, considering different information when appropriate. As Aristotle wrote, "It is the mark of an educated mind to be able to entertain a thought without accepting it." Be able to consider new information, different opinions, and argue with others in an honest way in order to avoid belief perseverance and benefit from the knowledge of others whom you may not initially agree with.
- Joe
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