Is it just about the questions?

It is a very confusing world we live in- this fact was exemplified in today’s rather interesting lecture on Nationalism; or what we perceive of it. Where does one turn to if the very fundamental history that you learn in school is rubbished; when all that seemed important in the ‘glorious’ freedom struggle is thrown out the window? It is very easy to accept what is taught to us, to learn up answers and to take in facts that are wrapped up in the pretext of education; even more effective if these will later fetch you an extra couple of marks in the forthcoming examinations.
The thing that is not so simple is the rhetorical analysis of these facts, much later- to have it broken down principle by principle, to question the very fundamentals all over again. As a youngster still learning, still seeking to soak in the depths of knowledge, which version does one read into, which argument does one go along with, when both sides seem to make equal sense; if one is not instantly provoked or peeved off with the opposing viewpoint immediately, does it reflect a sense of complacency or indifference; can it simply not indicate that more research and analysis on the subject is needed before arriving at any further judgement or conclusion. In matters of extreme social relevance or importance, is it not necessary to look at things from the other perspective; even if just temporarily so.
Why is it so easy for bias to seep into our way or mode of thinking? The youngster’s mind which is capable of nurturing and remembering is tarnished by this uncanny trait of ‘influence’; it is absolutely essential to accept that as the youth there is so much that we do not know, have not experienced and simply do not understand; but it is even more important to understand, analyse, read up by one’s own means; to listen to all kinds of input, look at both sides of the coin and then figure out what one’s stand is! This, however is much easier said than done; and a very important factor which affects it is the power of EFFECTIVE COMMUNICATION, the manner in which the presenter comes across: vehemence, emotion, precision, clarity, passion and emphatic speakers tend to leave a longer and lasting impression than their counterparts with lesser oratorical skills- it is very easy to be swayed by the former, even if the latter makes more sense.
At first I was very sure that ‘to question and confute is to learn; and to learn is to live’. Over the last few weeks, I have felt the need to modify this- ‘to listen, retain, remember and reflect is just as important as the questioning; and as long as one is always thinking, it is all that matters!

:)

Gonna be back.... SOOONN!!!