"It is [the] certainty that they possess the truth that makes men cruel."

When people are completely convinced they hold the ultimate truth, it often leads to cruelty. This happens because when someone believes their understanding is the only correct one, they tend to disregard, dismiss, or even attack differing perspectives. It's like they're wearing blinders, seeing only their own viewpoint and nothing else.

Historically, this idea has shown up time and again. Take the religious wars in Europe, for example. During the Reformation in the 16th century, Catholics and Protestants were so certain their version of Christianity was the correct one that they went to war over it. Thousands were killed, and atrocities were committed—all in the name of "truth." It wasn't about dialogue or understanding; it was about proving the other side wrong, no matter the cost.

Now, let’s bring it down to a personal level with a story. Imagine a high school debate team. There's this one girl, Sarah, who is absolutely convinced she’s right about every topic they cover. She’s smart, well-read, but she’s also inflexible. During a practice session, another team member, Jake, presents a different perspective on climate change. Sarah cuts him off, ridiculing his points and dismissing his evidence without really listening. Jake, feeling humiliated, withdraws from the conversation. The team’s morale takes a hit, and they start losing matches because they can't work together effectively. Sarah’s certainty, rather than making her a strong debater, turns her into a sort of tyrant, alienating her teammates and stifling any productive debate.

So, how can we take this wisdom and actually use it in our own lives? First, it’s crucial to practice humility. Always remind yourself that you don’t have all the answers. Engage with others’ ideas genuinely. Ask questions, listen actively, and be open to the possibility that you could be wrong. This doesn't mean you shouldn't have convictions—it means holding them with a level of openness and flexibility.

Imagine you’re in a heated discussion with a friend about politics. Instead of going in with the attitude that you’re right and they’re wrong, approach it as a learning opportunity. Ask them why they believe what they do, and really listen. Share your thoughts, too, but frame them as your perspective, not as the ultimate truth. You’ll likely find the conversation more enriching and less confrontational. And maybe, just maybe, you’ll both come away with a deeper understanding of the issue.

The core lesson here is about the dangers of inflexibility and the importance of empathy and openness. When we believe we hold the sole truth, we shut down dialogue and create division. But when we approach conversations with an open mind and a willingness to understand others, we foster connection and growth. It’s not always easy—and it’s something I struggle with too—but it’s worth trying.

So next time you find yourself in a debate, whether it’s with a friend, a colleague, or even a stranger online, take a step back. Ask yourself: Am I being open to their perspective? You might find that this simple shift in mindset can transform not just the conversation, but your relationships and your understanding of the world.