Opinion Types:

Inherited Opinion: You grew up with it.

(example: political affiliation)

Involuntary Opinion: It is ingrained in you via subtle “brainwashing.” (example: brand names; idea of beauty)

Adaptive Opinion: You have it because you want to belong to the group that holds it (example: music; job)

Concealed Opinion: An opinion you do not voice because it differs from that of your peers (example: Your peers are against stem cell research, so you are quiet.)

Linked Opinion: An opinion that is the result of another opinion (Pro-life or Pro-choice and capital punishment)

Considered Opinion: Carefully arrived at; informed as opposed to emotional; the result of extensive research or personal experience (can be any of the above)

*It is crucial to demonstrate that your opinion is a considered opinion by providing proof and showing consideration of other opinions.

Discussion of Opinions

“Most people don’t change their minds as a function of debate/discussion, so why bother?”

· You learn more about the topic, which can change an emotional opinion to a considered one.

· You understand where the other side is coming from, which can have several effects:

1. “Devillainization”: The other side seems less evil.

2. Inside information: You know the other side’s hot points and triggers; you can use common ground to your benefit; you can anticipate their responses and have counter-responses ready.

Be Open: Even if your opinion is a considered opinion, you may still learn something about the topic.

Be Willing: Share your thoughts so as to create greater understanding of the topic for everyone. Awesome written responses only benefit me.

Be Kind: People have concealed opinions because they are afraid of risking disapproval/animosity. However, they don’t change their opinions; they simply hide them.