Why Conservatives Think Their Views Should Be Believed

Lets be honest…all dialog comes to the public square on mostly equal footing. All sides try to attain the values enshrined in the United States Constitution: 'We the People of the United States in Order to form a more perfect Union, establish Justice, insure domestic tranquility, provide for the common defense, promote the general welfare, and secure the Blessings of Liberty to ourselves and our posterity...'

So no burden of proof is equal. This means that all parties involved in a discussion have an equal opportunity to present their arguments and evidence. Additionally, if you want to hear the best arguments for conservative causes, it helps to read conservative publications and think tanks. Some recommended sources include Townhall and the Heritage Foundation, and there are likely many more available to you.

It's important to note that simply because an idea comes from a conservative source, it does not mean it should be automatically accepted or agreed with. Indeed, seeking out conservative viewpoints is as important as seeking out liberal ones. This requires an open mind and a willingness to engage with a variety of perspectives.

The Nature of Belief

But why do some conservatives seem to believe that their views should be accepted without question? To answer this, we must understand that belief, in its fundamental definition, is the acceptance of something as true, especially without proof. When a person believes in something, they are essentially asserting that they accept its truthfulness.

Take, for instance, the statement, “I believe religion should be a personal choice.” If a conservative states this, they are expressing a belief that this stance is true. Similarly, a liberal might assert, “I believe in climate change.” In both cases, the statement is an expression of belief, which inherently carries a sense of truth.

Why Everyone Wants Agreement

It's important to recognize that everyone, regardless of their political affiliation, desires that their beliefs and viewpoints are understood and agree with. This is a natural human inclination to feel that one's ideas are correct and valid. It's not a matter of arrogance or overgeneralization, but rather a reflection of the universal human drive to have one's beliefs resonate with others.

The challenge is not in believing in something you consider true, but in fostering an environment where differing views can be heard and considered. The key is to approach these discussions with an open mind and a genuine interest in understanding different perspectives.

The Alternative View

But what happens when we turn to the alternative? Would it not be better if everyone was more skeptical of their own beliefs and more willing to question them? This approach can indeed lead to more thoughtful and evidence-based discussions. However, it is also important to realize that skepticism can sometimes go too far, leading to a form of relativism where no belief is considered more valid than another.

How often do you hear a liberal say, "I believe these things, but I don't think I should be believed and agreed with"? The reality is, most people, regardless of their political affiliation, expect their beliefs to be taken seriously and understood by others. This is not to say that all conservative views are correct, but rather to highlight the universal nature of the desire to have one's beliefs acknowledged.

The Role of Education and Exposure

To ensure that all viewpoints are heard and considered, it's crucial to seek out diverse sources of information. Reading conservative publications and engaging with conservative thinkers can provide valuable insights and perspective. The same applies to liberal and other viewpoints. This exposure can broaden your understanding and help you make more informed decisions.

Finally, it's important to address the underlying belief that people from different backgrounds and political affiliations hold their views with conviction. This is a natural and healthy trait, as it allows for the exploration and testing of ideas. While it's important to remain open-minded and critical, it's equally important to recognize and respect the belief that what one holds to be true should, by default, be considered when engaging in discourse.

Ultimately, the goal should be to foster an environment where all beliefs are respected, and where all voices are heard, rather than conducting a blanket dismissal or acceptance of all beliefs. By doing so, we can achieve a more enriched and nuanced understanding of the issues that matter to us as individuals and as a society.