Disagreement is at the heart of human progress

A disagreement. Ought it always bear a negative result? Is it always a barrier to progress? Does it really induce differences?

These are what many attribute to disagreements between two individuals, groups, communities, organisations or even countries. But such narrow-minded people are blind to the genesis of ideas, innovations and wonders that a disagreement can lead to. In fact, Gandhi said, “Honest disagreement is often a good sign of progress.”

You might be wondering whether everyday disagreements between children, especially teenagers, and their parents could actually bring about progress. If that difference in opinions is really valid and candid, then it does bring change for the good. My parents and I have disagreed upon many things, like my choice of activities, and my approach towards various issues and problems. This has helped open my mind and change my perspective from a single to a multi-dimensional one. When someone disagrees with your view point a little voice within you might just urge you to step into that person’s shoes and ponder about what they said. That may change you or your thought process, all for the better.

Can debates and disagreement ever cause destruction? My answer would be yes and no. Sometimes people disagree with governments and take to outdoor protests, which can cause unpleasant scenes with the police or army controlling a hysterical population. But what about political debates in a parliament session? These are instrumental in the passing of new bills and making of new laws.

Television debates help lawmakers know what everybody feels and thus come up with the best solution.

A disagreement within the scientific community can lead to revolutionary ideas and inventions. The periodic table, the structure of an atom, all these have resulted from the fact that scientists disagree with the existing model.

So, a disagreement, big or small, important or trivial can actually be for the better and not just have a dark side. In the words of the social philosopher Eric Hoffer, “The beginning of thought is in disagreement - not only with others but also with ourselves.”

— The reader is a student based in Dubai