Smart people have a flaw. They consider logic to be a singular entity that they clearly see. They see it as clear as day and are totally confused when others think differently or present different conclusions.

It bothers me sometimes too. It bothers me more when the alternate point is presented by someone who is clearly smart, but they see so clearly what I don’t, or vice versa.

That’s perspective.

It’s not a matter of who is factually right or wrong. It’s the acceptance that there could be multiple ways of looking at the same thing. Come to think of it, it’s the foundation of intelligence in human civilization. Intellectually stimulating debates, scientific research with unconventional approaches, all of our progress has taken place because someone chose to pursue a different perspective and more importantly, a critical mass of other folks chose to evaluate, accept and in some cases, continue to pursue that perspective for further innovation.

I would argue that this nature of our human civilization to evaluate and accept compelling perspectives is a bigger driver of growth as compared to single strokes of intellectual brilliance by individuals. There have been many in the past who’ve discovered the laws of the world way ahead of their time but have been lost in history till societal change at large took place due to many individuals recognizing the need to accept the different perspective and check the facts associated with it.

I don’t believe that we look at the facts and change our perspective. I think the change comes the moment we genuinely decide to give a differing opinion a shot.

The habit of discussing these perspectives leads to a lifetime of mutual respect with those you care about and constant learning. It’s the first step towards true intelligence.