Republican. Democrat. Christian. Muslim. How do you define such labels?
Perspectivity to me is like historiography. The critical examinations of events through learning and understanding different viewpoints. In a world dominated by labels, we should aim to question and reflect on various beliefs of the entire political spectrum. In a turbulent world troubled by political instability and violence, I do think it's easier for us make assumptions and stereotypes about how people think.
For example, the false equivocation fallacies with equivocating all Republicans as far right supporters or either ordinary Muslims as terrorists. These fallacies and misconceptions can be addressed through reading various news sources (examples: UN news center, NGO reports, along newspapers of various political affiliations), interacting with people of different beliefs and cultures, along with participating in debates or other civil dialogue opportunities.
Therefore, I do believe that perspectivity helps us shape our mindsets and sense of morality in a volatile world.
Kymberley,
I think you're spot on in how you point out the assumptions we make about one another far too often in the political world. Up until about a year ago, I was the kind of person who called Trump supporters 'Nazis' and anyone who was anti-feminist an oppressive man who didn't know what he was talking about. Yet after finally opening up and listening to these people I treated so awfully, I supported a lot of Trump's policies and no longer identify as a feminist. Since I've switched from the left to the right, I've had the chance to experience both sides of the political spectrum (in general) and I now realize that both sides have made erroneous assumptions about the other side. Now that I am much more accepting I've found discussions with others to be much more productive!
What are some assumptions you guys have made about the left/right or any other groups in the past?
Stereotypes really are prevalent about the left and the right and reinforced by our echo chambers and increasingly ideological and partisan social media and news feeds. When I was younger, I had viewed Democrats as lower and middle class and Republicans as upper class.
Interesting survey/study on the topic - http://www.people-press.org/2016/06/22/4-partisan-stereotypes-views-of-republicans-and-democrats-as-neighbors/.
Cassidy,
I do believe that the spectrum of political beliefs is fluid and multi-faceted. There are variations of subjective beliefs and we think in liberal or conservative modes of thinking according to neuroscience. Regarding feminism, I do support it, however, I believe that we are unable to make progress due to the different political camps like men's liberation and extremist feminism that are unable to see each other's viewpoints.