Pensée 51

The Necessity of Opposition

 Although it is surely easier and preferable to go through one's life without opposition or facing resistance, I find it is vitally necessary to be challenged, opposed and confronted.

It is opposition and confrontation that makes one better. Any challenge to one's ideas, beliefs, policies and plans act as a refining fire if the criticism is reasonable and justified.

The lack of criticism is potentially a dangerous thing. Although order and efficiency are both necessities, a state that suppresses the voice of criticism, no matter how much it might disagree, runs the risk of totalitarianism.

There is a distinction to be made between opposition and dissent. Dissent implies the situation is so far gone that words and and peaceful challenge are no longer a viable option. the difference lies between reform and revolution.

In recent conversation some of the above used terms have come to be defined more clearly:
- Opposition is to be understood as legitimate resistance through existing channels, including but not exclusive to referendum, debate, petition and peaceful protest/rallies.

-Dissent is the significant disapproval of an existing regime or power structure however not necessarily aligned with legitimate opposition, although not overtly anti-authoritarian. This could include paramilitary wings of political parties, lobbies or special interest groups.

-Revolution is the wholehearted disapproval or hatred for policy resulting in overarching political, social, economic and religious change.

Thanks to G. Marshall for the excellent conversation, critique and collaboration.