Understanding the Philodox: A Reflection on Opinions

Now, I’m fully aware that you might be thinking that I’ve taken up where Lewis Carroll left off with this title. Or perhaps you could imagine that I’m pitching an idea for a sci-fi film. Alas, neither is true. It simply is, as stated, a warning.

We are surrounded by philodoxical pontificators who are, for the most part, if not a danger to our society, the destroyers of our inner peace.

Definition: A philodox is one who has an excessive and dogmatic love of their own opinions.

I’m sure that might just ring a few bells for many of us. Of course, we might all, at times, be a little philodoxical. We may feel committed to sharing our opinions in a manner that reflects our passion, knowledge, and skill. We can be a little too smug about how ‘right’ we are when it comes to our favourite subjects. However, the true philodox is not just your average bloviator. They are individuals who have taken the right to free speech as their license to inflict their unwarranted opinions on everyone.

The Impact of Philodoxes on Society

More often than not, they are the negative naysayers who let us know what is wrong with the world. They criticize society, the government, teenagers, old people, health systems, and welfare. You get my drift.

The last week has seen the flourishing of the philodoxes. While Australia grieves for the lives lost at Bondi, we are further battered by the rising tide of blowhards.

There they are, front and centre, with their opinions flowing from slathering lips. They blame all and sundry. Allegedly, they are experts in all fields. They know what the police should have done, where ASIO and the government failed, and how this threat went unrealised. They claim to know how this tragedy could have been prevented.

The Poison of Opinions in Public Discourse

Perhaps some of what they say has relevance. However, it is often delivered with such poison that it becomes unbearable. Why have many political figures used this moment to point-score? Why has the media tried the ‘gotcha question’? Why do factions within factions ramp up their rotten rhetoric?

I have no answer to that question. I don’t know why the philodoxes must swing the limelight their way and spew their meanness. It’s not the time. It’s certainly not the circumstance. Australians feel wounded. We are experiencing loss—not only grieving for the loss of lives but also the loss of our innocence. We may even feel guilt at our complacency.

The Need for Reflection and Understanding

We need to sit quietly for a bit. We must take it in and come to a conclusion about how we might move forward as individuals and communities. We need to listen to erudite discussions and ideas from experts and experienced professionals in various fields. From this quiet listening, we might just be able to form an opinion worth sharing.

But the blowhard makes all the noise and takes all the oxygen. They appeal to some and rile a minority to espouse the same baying for blood. The rest of us are devastated by the ranting. But the philodox wants a win, no matter the cost. They thrive on pushing their one-sided diatribe, regardless of the impact. They love their opinions more than those to whom they spruik.

The Importance of Civil Discourse

In times of crisis, civil discourse becomes even more crucial. We must engage in conversations that promote understanding rather than division. It is essential to challenge the philodoxes with reasoned arguments and to encourage a culture of listening.

When we engage in respectful dialogue, we create space for diverse perspectives. This is how we can foster a more compassionate society. We must remember that every opinion is shaped by personal experiences and beliefs.

Embracing Kindness and Empathy

So, dear readers, beware of the sermoniser whose tirade gives an easy solution to a crisis. Step away from the haranguer who verbally mauls those different from themselves. Close your ears against the attack on common human decency.

May this time of the year for all of us be devoid of the philodox and full of peace and deep kindness.

Peace cannot be kept by force; it can only be achieved by understanding.

Albert Einstein

Conclusion: A Call for Kindness

In conclusion, we must strive to cultivate a culture of kindness and understanding. Let us not be swayed by the noise of the philodoxes. Instead, let us focus on building bridges and fostering connections. Together, we can create a more harmonious world, one conversation at a time.