Political discussions can lead to heated debates, stronger friendship for some voters

This election season has motivated many people to engage in political discourse. I personally enjoy the spirited discussions that take place on our campus and on social media outlets. It gives me hope that our generation cares about the issues of today and how they affect our future.

These discussions inevitably lead to heated debate and disagreement even among friends. These past few years have seen a rise in partisan politics and a lack of cooperation in Washington. Despite the gridlock and finger pointing that have defined these times, I believe politics does not have to be entirely divisive. Rather, it can unite us and allow us to find common ground.

One of my best friends and I are known for arguing over politics. I am a staunch libertarian and he is a steadfast Democrat, so our conversations usually end with me calling him a bleeding-heart liberal who thinks with his heart instead of his brain, and him calling me a cold and heartless worshipper of Ayn Rand’s objectivist individualism. Many of our friends see our conversations as useless exercises that serve only to foster negative opinions of each other.

What many people fail to grasp is the mental sparring that takes place when we exchange ideas. Because both of us follow the issues closely, we always try to come up with new arguments to disprove the other’s theory. When he counters one of my ideas, I consider my position and work to find answers to his questions. If I cannot find a logical and rational answer, I re-evaluate my position. This give-and-take process helps to refine ideas, create the best possible arguments both sides have to offer and cut to the core of where our differences lie.

During the past year, I became very close to and have met many individuals from the opposite side of the political spectrum. Though my political stance remains essentially unchanged and drastically opposite to theirs (at least on economic issues), I can firmly say I at least understand how they see things. This understanding is essential in leading to friendship and, potentially, compromise.

I encourage all my fellow students to engage in political discussion, especially if their opinions differ. I believe this competition of thoughtful ideas is essential to a healthy democracy. Further, these discussions can foster strong relationships and close connections with people who hold opposing views.

Stephen Sydor
Class of 2014
International relations, economics major