Disagreeing agreeably

I was charmed by the Greg Bruce article (Canvas, July 30) regarding the benefits of teaching philosophy to schoolkids. He stated:“One of the most striking phrases I heard during the discussions among older students was, ‘I disagree’. It was always communicated without passion or anger — just another phrase.”

That phrase opens the door to further discussion about the reasons why one might disagree with another, and the opportunity for enlightenment and greater shared understanding.

Contrast that with, “You’re wrong” as a response, where a much more likely result is “fight or flight”. Try placing that approach in the context of social media.

I acknowledge the benefits social media can provide by sharing information quickly and extensively but it can also be quite destructive.

If only more people could apply some cool-headed critical thinking skills to their online interactions everyone would be better off.