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In almost all realms of human endeavor, progress is best made through discussion among people with contrasting points of view. Whether it is in natural science, social science, or humanities, debates and disagreement are the founding stones for development.

First, the scientific research methodologies in studying natural sciences are essentially a call for contrasting views since the establishment of any new theories must withstand rigorous scientific scrutiny. The history of scientific development is basically a history of grand debates. One example in physics involving contrasting views is the discovery of the particle-wave duality of light. At the end of the 19th century, the community of physics was divided into two camps regarding the nature of light. While classical physicists believed that light is wave nature, other physicists including Einstein argued that it is of particle nature. Through intense debate, physicist eventually developed a new theory, suggesting the light possess both qualities, that indeed reconcile the debate and facilitated scientific progress.

The value of discussion between people with opposing views is not limited to natural sciences. In the fields of social sciences such as politics and laws, progress also comes from dissension from the status quo. In fact, without separation and balance of power among factions with opposing viewpoints, political oppressions and tyranny would go unchecked. Similarly, in the fields of civil and criminal laws, conservative jurists and legislators who uphold the written laws must face continual opposition and challenges from their liberal contemporaries who urge discretion. This ongoing discussion is critical for maintaining the vitality of the legal system.

Those who oppose discussion between people with opposing views may state that these debates can trigger conflicts among groups with conflicting interests and eventually threaten the stability of the society. However, I believe that those who hold this view have neglected numerous empirical evidence which informs us of the disastrous effect suppression of free speech and debate have on societal progress. For instance, to promote his theory of the inheritance of acquired characteristics, the Soviet scientist Lysenko and his supporters in the Soviet government oppressed and persecuted over 3,000 scientists with opposing academic views from 1930 to 1960. Finally, Lysenko’s theory was proved false, and his abuse of power led to the stagnation of biology research in the Soviet Union for over 30 years.

Although undue discord may impede progress, it is through discourse and debate between opposing viewpoints that true progress can be best made. Advances in science, politics, and law depend on the debate, without which pseudoscience and dictatorship would prevail.