This is a great and important point. And it reminds me a fabulous fable by CK Lim. We all see too many counter-productive arguments on a daily basis - especially, when the situation is ambiguous and it is not clear at all about who is right, and who is wrong…
Since many arguments stem from the beliefs anchored by perceived biases and opinions rather than reliable evidence based on data – it is pointless to argue. Instead, it is time to collect the data, turn it into information, and make the best decision based on it...
Yes, data gives us the facts; facts assemble into correct information; information, when absorbed as knowledge, allows any problem to be solved, any question to be answered”, And over time, all such knowledge supported by Experience & Intuition – leads to a WISDOM - an ultimate Advice leading to a better decision.
“The biggest waste of time is arguing with the fool and fanatic who doesn't care about truth or reality, but only the victory of his beliefs and illusions. Never waste time on discussions that make no sense”…
As CK Lim rightfully said: “There are people who, for all the evidence presented to them, do not have the ability to understand. Others who are blinded by ego, hatred and resentment, and the only thing that they want is to be right even if they aren’t” – regretfully…
And if you missed the CK Lim’s fable, here is its concise version:
“The donkey told the tiger: the grass is blue. The tiger replied: no, the grass is green. The discussion became heated, and the two decided to submit the issue for lion’s arbitration”...
“The donkey said: isn't it true that the grass is blue? The lion replied: If you believe it is true, the grass is blue. The donkey continued: the tiger disagrees with me, contradicts me, and annoys me. Please punish him. And the lion declared: the tiger will be punished"...
“The tiger asked the lion: your Majesty, why have you punished me, after all, the grass is green. The lion replied: you've known and seen the grass is green. The punishment is because it is degrading for a brave, intelligent creature like you to waste time arguing with an ass”
In conclusion, CK Lim says: “The biggest waste of time is arguing with the fool and fanatic who doesn't care about truth or reality, but only the victory of his beliefs and illusions. Never waste time on discussions that make no sense”...
“There are people who, for all the evidence presented to them, do not have the ability to understand. Others who are blinded by ego, hatred and resentment, and the only thing that they want is to be right even if they aren’t”… How true!
