Impartiality in listening
By rosdimy
@rosdimy (3926)
Malaysia
September 13, 2009 3:10pm CST
Impartiality means an inclination, desire, or tendency to weigh two or more sides of an argument.
To be an effective listener we need to have some degree of impartiality. Without this characteristic, it is highly likely that we become argumentative, because we see our point of view is correct, and not really trying to put ourselves in the other situations. Another effect of not being impartial is the giving of inappropriate advice or suggestions.
We are from different backgrounds and experiences, which result in different viewpoints on the same issue. Therein lies one of the stumbling blocks to impartiality. It is natural for most of us to view and understand things based on what we had gone through in life.
Do you think that you are an impartial person? If so, how impartial are you? Have you given any suggestion to a solution which you will not do yourself, but appropriate to the other person?
Have you met an impartial person?
Thank you in advance.
(Note; If there is any response I may not immediately comment back. It is 4.04 am here, and I have to prepare the meal before fasting begins for the day)
2 responses
@cbakin20 (149)
• United States
13 Sep 09
I try my very hardest to be completely impartial. I don't think that anyone is perfect, but I tend to be pretty good at stepping back and looking at the situation to find a good way to be unbiased. I often have to force myself to say something other than what I would first want to say, but I can usually make myself do it. I rarely ever meet people who even realize the value of being impartial, though. Most people now like pushing their ideas on you and they want you to do whatever works out best for them.
1 person likes this
@rosdimy (3926)
• Malaysia
14 Sep 09
Many of us fo try our best to be impartial, and many believe they are giving the best opinion or suggestion. No room is given for possible changes in view points and opinions. Someone once told me in rather harsh terms that I was completely wrong in an issue.
Your last sentence may make you become unpopular, because there are many 'righteous' and 'infallible' people around us. Even I myself find it hard to be impartial when it comes to issues very close to the heart.
@kalav56 (11464)
• India
14 Sep 09
I can say with a clear conscience that I am a very good listener. I always tend to listen with the other person's point of view in mind[ when the matter is his and not mine--say for example in a my lot discussion ].We do tend to get influenced by similar situations we have faced , but I tell them that too, bearing how feasible it would be from the other's condition. When it is a clear case of total difference in cultures and upbringing I just write that and stop with that .I straightaway say that I am from a totally different upbringing and that the issue raised is something beyond my imagination.
@rosdimy (3926)
• Malaysia
17 Sep 09
It may not be necessary, at least that was what I experienced. The problem may lie among the people with whom we share the same beliefs. The person we respond to may accept our view on the subject, but our brothers and sisters in the same belief may accuse us of being a traitor to our respective religion. There are certain Interests on myLot where we can find many 'open minded' and 'progressive' people who try to force their beliefs and values in life on other people.
@rosdimy (3926)
• Malaysia
15 Sep 09
Being completely honest when listening, and followed by giving an unbiased view is possible, even though it is easier said than done. I am saying this in general, based on my observations, and not questioning your opinion. For all I know you may be even more modest than what your words potrayed.
I hope you keep your impartiality, come what may. The world need more impartial people for it to become a better place to live in.
