“There is a longstanding
body of psychological evidence that shows that lecturing people that they are
wrong, listing a bunch of facts that conclusively demonstrate that, and busting
the myths spread by irresponsible political opponents not only fails to change
minds, it makes people more fixed in their views.” These words of Sonia Sudha in her recent Guardian article, ‘Outrage
makes you feel good, but doesn’t change minds,’ set me on a contemplation
course like self-help books used to do once upon a time.
When the contemplation
was over I spoke to a few friends over phone, something which I hardly do these
days. I had chosen relative solitude for
a huge variety of reasons one of which is erosion of trust in people. The phone conversations turned out to be
quite rewarding unlike what I had expected.
The friends were candid in telling me that my political views are out of
tune with popular moods or things similar.
In short, I wasn’t achieving anything good by writing them.
There are good friends
still, I thought. I mean it’s so hard to
find people who are not politically correct even while talking to friends. And I’m lucky. I put Sonia Sodha’s observation and those of
my friends together and decided to stay from current politics for a while as
far as blogging is concerned. I can do
better with books and other really worthwhile stuff. You might even find me writing blogs for some
insurance companies which are ready to pay for the publicity.
[Not a permanent decision, however]
Better to leave politics to politicians! There is so much else to figure out in life!
ReplyDeleteTo politicians and media professionals. 😀 Indeed life will be better far away from politics.
DeleteGood to know about your decision...whatever the reason is.
ReplyDeletePerhaps new trails lead to better destinations.
DeleteI too had same views like you had. So I was always glad that someone says those in public. People are not ready to think. They always wants to stay in their illusory world. So you do not belong to their world and they refuses to accept you. But it was great to see someone telling the truth straight forward
ReplyDeleteThis is one way of the old giving way to the new. Mathematics has no feelings, you see 😃
DeleteHow much I liked reading your views on politics among other topics. As a reader,although a reclusive one, I would like you to continue writing your views regardless of unsolicited opinions. Never say never. But that's just another opinion
ReplyDeleteYou have to stop writing politics the moment you are seen as anything other than a citizen. India does not have citizens now, it has Hindus or Muslims or Christians. We and They. Even highly educated people have succumbed to the delight of enemy-baiting.
DeleteWith age comes wisdom,but sometimes age alone comes. Have to wait and acquire knowledge and wisdom like you to speak like you. Which is not possible for anyone in the near future for we all have a rush hour these times
ReplyDeleteWisdom comes to those who are willing to receive her. You will have your time. Anyway I don't consider myself wise.
Delete"When the contemplation was over I spoke to a few friends over phone, something which I hardly do these days. I had chosen relative solitude for a huge variety of reasons one of which is erosion of trust in people"
ReplyDeleteGlad to note that you broke the stalemate...
It was certainly heartening to see that friends remained friends even after a two year-long silence from my part.
DeleteThis is definitely not the best of times to engage in political dialog. Especially if you are already popular and have a readership. The beauty of blogging is that you can say what you want if you are a nobody, since nobody will likely ever find out. With your insights and depth, it will be a huge service if you start writing about books and reading, for example. There is no point in getting into trouble defending your truth against hoodlums.
ReplyDeleteThanks, Subhorup.
Delete