Most of us face numerous discussions full of ideas, debate and controversy on a daily basis. For your opinion on these topics and issues to have a solid foundation, you should know how to formulate it effectively. Follow the steps in the article carefully.
Steps
Step 1. Choose the subject or issue you feel the need to formulate an opinion about
The topics can be varied, from fishing with live or artificial bait, to the best basketball team or to the religion practiced. Opinions have numerous and different levels of importance.
Step 2. Consider the process of forming an opinion as an internal or mental debate
You will need to look at the problem from every perspective, considering the pros and cons.
Step 3. Find out about the topic
You may feel satisfied just reading an article or want to research for hours. In any case, until you understand all sides of this hypothetical reasoning, you don't have to turn your opinion into a belief.
Step 4. Talk to other people, hear their opinions on the matter and weigh their reasons
Be careful not to accept a one-sided point of view. For example, if you want to formulate an opinion on an issue related to school football teams, don't just ask pupils from one school.
Step 5. Listen to discussions, debates and even arguments
Opinions relating to issues of social interest generate public debates in every place, from the editorial pages of newspapers, to television news, to numerous places in between.
Step 6. Find out what recognized experts and professionals have to say
The man on the street does not always have access to all relevant information on the subject, for example in areas such as safety, stock markets or health. Nevertheless, and even if he is aware of it, he will almost always have an opinion on the subject.
Step 7. Talk to friends about it
Friends often tend to share our views on various social issues and issues, and if they have a solid opinion, listening to their reasons may help you create your own.
Step 8. Learn to leave out exaggerations and biased news on the subject
By only reading the headlines, especially if they are reported by partisan sources, you will be led to think just as the media want. Headlines are often worded to attract public attention, and only among the smallest characters will you find any reasoned, reasoned and accurate information.
Step 9. Ask yourself if what you read or hear is reasonable, logical and realistic
If someone were to argue that, in their opinion, a certain stock will quickly triple its value, it will obviously be advisable to question its words. Often you will come up against irrational or biased opinions, so educating yourself is the best way to form a coherent point of view on the issue.
Step 10. Decide what your opinion is on the subject and be ready to affirm, defend and support it
Nonetheless, keep an open mind unless you are fully convinced and eager to take sides.
Step 11. Until you reach the point described above, keep your opinion to yourself, unless you are asked for it or you choose to disclose it in a friendly discussion
Advice
- It is important to differentiate fact from opinion, especially when mass media are involved. The media are not used to present the pros and cons of a thesis, generally journalists tend to influence the presentation of the facts using their own feelings and opinions.
- Don't just rely on a source known for its bias. Go in search of facts and not ideas.
- Information is a perishable product. Receiving relevant information at the right time is a key element when it comes to making a decision.
- Since opinions range from vital factors to mundane and insignificant elements, the time spent in formulating them should correspond to the importance of the subject.
- Even when the subject is of a historical and past nature, it is very important to have all the necessary information because some studies may be subsequent to the events.
- Don't let what you want to believe influence your research as you try to formulate your opinion.
Warnings
- When there is evidence that contradicts what you believe, always keep an open mind.
- Always be courteous when expressing yourself, you cannot foresee how your words or opinions can hurt the feelings of others.
- When you deal with sensitive and controversial topics such as abortion, religion and politics you understand that there are numerous paths that lead to the same goal. If you feel in a position to do so, state your opposition to other people's opinion and then take a break from the discussion. You may be able to reach an agreement based on some common beliefs, for example by using biblical content. Also be willing to include a third party in the discussion.
- Some people are not reasonable when it comes to discussing topics such as abortion, religion and politics.
