Yes indeed, I am going to Bob Dylan for a little insight into justice.
Making snap judgments is almost natural. From an intuition standpoint, it may even be evolutionary. But is it always right?
A predisposition based on upbringing, cultural norms, and the popular opinion of others is probably even less correct.
The easy way out is to criticize the things we don’t understand. It is easier to go with a bias rather than a well-researched conclusion. But the research gives substance to the conclusion. It gives meaning which always trumps the “in my opinions” of the world.
I have been guilty of criticizing the things I don’t understand. I have brushed over the differences of others for an easier judgment void of critical thinking. This is contrary to the voices of my heroes, the very heroes I claim to listen to. Consider:
- “Forsake foolishness that you may live; advance in the way of understanding. –Solomon (Proverbs 9:6)
- “It is no virtue to be steadfast and consistent in defending a false idea. Welcome correction, and change your thinking to fit reason. Don’t twist reason to fit your opinions.” –Marcus Aurelius
- However, the truth will never be discovered if we rest contented with discoveries already made. Besides, he who follows another not only discovers nothing but is not even investigating. –Seneca
- Don’t criticize what you can’t understand. –Bob Dylan
In an ever-changing world, there is one constant that will never change: wisdom. And in order to get wisdom, you must first get knowledge and then understanding. This is the path that will disrupt misconceptions. It will demagnetize us from our false assumptions and move us closer to justice.
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