Humans have a natural instinct for tribalism that leads us to assume the worst about those who disagree with us. Steven Collis emphasizes that we often think those who think differently from us must either be fools or monsters. This inclination creates an 'us vs. them' mentality, making it crucial to overcome such instincts to foster healthy dialogues and understanding.
Collis stresses the importance of intellectual humility, noting that many of us overestimate our understanding of others' motives and the topics we engage in. He argues that acknowledging our ignorance can help reduce the tendency to assume negative intentions when faced with disagreement. This awareness facilitates curiosity and a willingness to listen, which are essential in constructive conversations.
Encouraging a shift in perspective, Collis advises us to replace our instinctual negativity with inquiry. Instead of jumping to conclusions about others' motives, he suggests genuinely asking questions to understand their reasoning. This approach not only helps dismantle our initial biases but also fosters healthier dialogues by promoting empathy and deeper understanding.
To combat the natural tribalistic tendencies that skew our perceptions, Collis champions questioning as a vital tool. He argues for posing genuine questions aimed at grasping the thought processes of others without any underlying agenda. Such authentic curiosity enables us to engage with differing views more openly and respectfully.
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