Saturday, January 23, 2016

Ideological Empathy


Like Alice, consider exercising your mind by trying on a particular belief or idea as though it were clothing to see how it suits you. An internal logic has led to that belief or idea, whether or not is rational. Discovering that internal logic can give you insight into that belief or idea, as well as into the minds of those who support it. Activities that encourage this exploration include:

  • watching or listening to news programs whose opinions you do not share with an open mind
  • playing devil's advocate when discussing issues with friends or family
  • building a case with supporting evidence for an unlikely belief
  • aligning yourself with others who share that particular belief or idea

You may be surprised by what your learn.

If you are writing fiction, this exploration will deepen your characters.