The Hypocrisy of Justification
The media is a sales machine, trying to broker your attention. One of their most effective strategies is pedaling justification.
When the person or party I don’t like disagrees with my views, I call them stubborn and backwards. I tout the virtues of collaboration and compromise, and act self-righteous. Then, when they do collaborate and compromise, I gloat and accuse them of caving.
It seems my motivations never were for collaboration. Otherwise I’d be celebrating and congratulating both sides for their success in finding middle ground or aspiring to something bigger.
The hypocrisy of justification is that we’d rather be right than effective. We are happy to change our tune as soon as we can say “See, I was right and you were wrong.”
Many politicians and the media are all guilty. So am I.
Are you prepared to celebrate the other side as valuable, capable and responsible when they make adjustments? If not, at least be honest about your motives.
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2 Comments
So True- I always have liked, and sometimes use, the saying “Would you rather be right, or happy?”. Seeking justification is about me trying to feel good about myself, a way to be ‘ok’, a way to be accepted by others for my knowledge. When in fact, it would connect me more with others when I can be vulnerable, understand at the heart level that I am ok no matter what, and let go of my need to be right. I can give myself an internal high five if I need to, but don’t let it out on the outside.
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Listening to the “other” side will give you the opportunity to understand different perspectives. But listen openly NOT preparing a response until you have understood the other person. Go to a different church, attend a political debate and listen equally to both sides. If you want to affirm what you already believe, stay in your established comfort zone.
Thanks, Nate
Great advice, Michael.
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