“It is the mark of an educated man to be able to entertain a thought without accepting it.” — Aristotle (384-322 BC) Greek philosopher

Sometimes deep contemplation on the thoughts of others sharpens your own that are contrary.  Consider the above.  From the foot of Aristotle sprang Plato.  These two minds while allied in many matters also contrasted in ways that help shape the foundation of our modern world.

Likewise, when we hear or read contrary ideas to our own, we should not be so easily dismissive without giving the thought consideration.  There are, I will grant, some ideas that are easily dismissed without a deep hearing of them.  But, in large, in understanding others we come at a minimum to a better understanding of ourselves on a philosophical level.  That being said, it is also useful to keep this in mind for our day to day.  Be it your significant other, your co-workers, or other people you encounter in life, it’s worth your while to first seek to understand them rather than insist that only yourself be understood.  I think Stephen Covey said something like that, right?