Sunday, January 12, 2020

Civility- It's not too much to ask for

Civility is about respect and courteous behavior towards others. In today's world, it not only applies to our immediate surroundings like home, and office, but also to social media or the virtual world where most of us spend considerable time interacting with others. During any discussion or argument, all it takes just one person acting rudely to poison the atmosphere. If allowed to continue or ignored, bad behavior of one person could impact the behavior of an entire group which might result in bullying or harassment of certain individuals or groups. If you scan atmosphere on the social media or even some social gatherings where people are prone to discuss politics or religion you will realize that civility is becoming increasingly rare. People are not only becoming aggressive about pushing their own opinions on others but they are becoming rude and openly disrespectful towards each other. Is civility too much to ask for?

In any group, society, or country it is normal to have different opinions, some opinions can be radically different from each other. Some of these opinions might be against the beliefs of the majority, might even sound disgusting to some of us, or challenge some of our core beliefs but even after all this, such opinions need to be given space so that they can be a part of debates and discussions. Suppressing any opinion or view does not make it go away, rather, if suppressed, it can take the form of an underground movement and we may never know when it might end. Therefore, civility is important during any interaction, personal or public. Civility ensures a healthy environment for interaction, it allows for the exchange of ideas and a chance to understand each other without being judgemental from the beginning. Personally, I started pointing at people whenever they crossed the line and started acting like a bully during any discussion, many don't like it, but I feel the necessity of doing it. So, please remember whenever you are part of any discussion check if it is being conducted in a civil manner where each and every member is encouraged to share their view, whether proper space is provided for alternate views or they are shouted and shut down. Ask yourself, am I acting in a civil manner, please remember, rudeness is contagious, but so is civility.

Thanks for reading and please share your opinion about this topic. 

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