Learning is central, it's important, I can't say that enough. Having said it, even if you are concrete in your beliefs and they will never change, it is important to discuss, when with other people, the other points of view in a fashion that suits their point as well as you suit yours. In other words, a Devil's Advocate. You need someone to point out what the point of view may be, and where they are coming from. Even if you know you'll never change your opinion, you want to give others a chance to decide for themselves.

An argument or an assertion is like a painting. It will be a work of art regardless of the pallet, but those color choices can cause the interpretation of it's meaning to be very different. It's possible to look at a set of facts and say numerous opinions about them that may or may not conflict, the point is interpretation can get fuzzy. If you only try and push an agenda, even if it's in a room full of others that think just like you, it's important to try and understand the opposing points of view. If you conduct it in a serious fashion, you may understand that oppossing force a little bit better, and if they do the same, a bridge can be made. As long as you think of the others as the enemy, they will do the same. Be the more understanding one, and invite your opponents to say what they will, if you can maintain your dignity while continuing to stress your point, they will come around if your ideas have merit. You have to give them a chance, even if every generation before you has tried and failed, forcing it won't bring any good in the long run to your beliefs. It's the freedom to choose, and you can't fit it.

Thought Done