From the article “The other side is not dumb” by Sean Blanda:
- What is the author’s (own) view/argument? (Identify the thesis.)
- To what other views/arguments is the author responding? Whose views/arguments are they? Does he/she agree or disagree with them? How do you know?
The Correct Answer and Explanation is :
1. The Author’s View/Argument (Thesis)
Sean Blanda’s central thesis in “The Other Side is Not Dumb” is that we tend to simplify, dismiss, and vilify those who hold views different from our own, creating an “in-group” of like-minded individuals and an “out-group” of those we deem wrong or ignorant. He argues that this behavior reinforces confirmation bias, stifles meaningful conversation, and deepens societal divides. Blanda advocates for empathy and open-mindedness, urging readers to engage with opposing perspectives rather than dismissing them outright.
2. Other Views/Arguments and the Author’s Response
Blanda responds to the pervasive attitude of superiority and mockery that many people exhibit toward opposing political, social, or cultural views. These attitudes are often found in echo chambers, particularly on social media, where people surround themselves with those who agree with them. The views he critiques are those of individuals who ridicule “the other side” by oversimplifying their beliefs and painting them as inherently flawed or stupid.
Blanda disagrees with this behavior, as evidenced by his critique of practices like sharing memes that mock opposing views or using social media platforms to publicly ridicule others. He points out how this creates a toxic environment where discourse is replaced with tribalism. He also challenges the mindset that the “other side” lacks intelligence or moral grounding, arguing instead that they often have legitimate reasons for their beliefs, even if we do not agree with them.
The author’s disagreement is evident in his call for empathy and his encouragement to approach differing views with curiosity rather than judgment. He highlights the importance of seeking to understand why people hold certain beliefs, emphasizing that engaging in constructive dialogue is far more productive than dismissing or mocking others.
In summary, Blanda champions open-mindedness and mutual respect, arguing that recognizing the humanity and rationality in others can bridge societal divides.