True intellectual inquiry sometimes requires empathy. To understand a contrasting viewpoint, especially in the presence of strong emotional disapproval, demands that we suspend our perspective to entertain the validity of the opposing viewpoint. As we place ourselves in the shoes of others and sincerely seek to understand how they arrived at their conclusions, we will receive a glimpse of their orientation towards the issue and a better understanding of their personal context. This process requires both humility and curiosity. Our patience will be rewarded with a broadened perspective and a more generous heart. If we seek only to justify ourselves and defend our positions we will be blinded to any deeper understanding.
"Empathy is the experience of foreign consciousness in general."
-Edith Stein
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