Start: August 10, 2007, 1:15 PM.Recently, I changed my Political Views in my Facebook profile from Apathetic to Very Liberal. I had wondered about those views for a while. Was I really apathetic towards politics? Did I really have no feelings towards what occurs in our nation?I knew I had my own beliefs. I have an opinion on most matters. I think global warming is a serious problem that needs more attention. I believe in abortion rights. I believe more funding should be given to stem cell research and many of its restrictions should be removed. I believe in gay marriage and gay rights. So there, clearly I have a stand on some major, controversial issues. But see, I've never rallied for any cause, never actively advocated my beliefs. I wondered whether this indicated a lack of passion for my beliefs. I know I believe in things, but do I have conviction for what I believe? I think one reason why I'm so uninvolved in advocating my beliefs is a fear of being opposed and criticized for my views. Fear of undertaking the daunting task of rallying for a cause and trying to change the sentiments of other people. Sometimes I question whether I, as an individual, can make a difference. Yes, I recycle and conserve paper and try to be open-minded and indiscriminate. But if I believe in these things, should I speak out more for them? Usually, in discussions about controversial issues, I shift back into the scenery. I listen to both sides cast their arguments. I take in what everyone says, judging mentally the validity and insight of each person's statements. But I rarely get involved and volunteer my voice in the discussion. I know, if I were called on and asked to present my views, which side I would take, but I find difficulty in bolstering my stand with a passionate belief. I think I have a decent knowledge and background of most issues and understand the key arguments of both sides, but I feel I lack the conviction to argue for the side I lean towards. Again, I think it has much to do with my fear of opposition and criticism. It's easy to criticize a new idea. It's easy to play devil's advocate. In debate, I always found the negative side easier. All you had to do was defend the status quo. A defensive stance rather than the offensive position of an activist. So I realized "apathetic" wasn't the right term to describe my political views. I feel I am very broad-minded in my thoughts and beliefs. But as far as how I express them, I think a more appropriate categorization would be "listless and timid." End: August 10, 2007, 2:00 PM. |