I own that on most day-to-day occasions I am “Midwest Nice.”
A person bumps into my shopping cart at the grocery store because they’re on their cell phone. I apologize to them even though I’m clearly not at fault.
I can’t help but say hello or smile to complete strangers on the street. My spouse often asks after I say hello to someone, “Who was that”? … “I don’t know. They waived so I waived,” I reply.
However, when there are topics I care deeply about – such as animal agriculture’s role in a wholesome, affordable, sustainable food system, I enjoy lively conversation, discussion, and, yes, disagreement.
Why?
In the dynamic landscape of industries and organizations, debate and disagreement are not only inevitable but also crucial for growth and success. Civil discourse, characterized by respectful exchanges of differing opinions, plays a pivotal role in fostering innovation, driving progress, and ensuring long-term viability. A few thoughts for this Third Thursday Thoughts …
At the heart of effective decision-making lies the exchange of diverse viewpoints. In industries and organizations, this exchange fuels innovation by challenging conventional wisdom and encouraging the exploration of new ideas. As Steve Jobs, the co-founder of Apple Inc., once remarked, “Innovation comes from people meeting up in the hallways or calling each other at 10:30 at night with a new idea.” Debate and disagreement serve as catalysts for this process, prompting individuals to critically evaluate assumptions, identify weaknesses, and refine strategies. Without these opposing voices, organizations risk stagnation and missed opportunities for growth.
Additionally, civil discourse cultivates a culture of transparency and accountability within our sector of today’s food system. When individuals feel empowered to voice dissenting opinions without fear of retribution, it fosters a climate where ideas are judged on their merit rather than the status or authority of those proposing them. This principle is echoed in the words of our immediate past Chair of the Board, Dr. Eric Moore, when he describes the National Institute for Animal Agriculture (NIAA) as a “safe space” where ALL can discuss, explore, and learn.
However, for debate and disagreement to fulfill their transformative potential, they must adhere to the principles of civil discourse. Civil discourse is characterized by several key rules:
1. Respectful Dialogue: Participants must engage in respectful dialogue, acknowledging the validity of differing perspectives and refraining from personal attacks or disparagement. As former Supreme Court Justice Anthony Scalia used to remark about his and former Justice Ruth Bader-Ginsberg’s friendship that even though they disagreed vehemently on many interpretations of the law, he debated ideas not the person.
2. Active Listening: Effective communication involves active listening, where individuals seek to understand opposing viewpoints before formulating their responses. I always appreciate leadership guru, John Maxwell’s advice – listen with the intent to understand not to respond.
3. Constructive Criticism: Feedback should be framed constructively, focusing on ideas rather than individuals. Critiques should be aimed at improving solutions rather than undermining credibility.
4. Evidence-Based Argumentation: Arguments should be supported by evidence and logical reasoning, rather than relying on emotional appeals or unsubstantiated claims.
5. Open-mindedness: Participants should remain open to revising their opinions in light of new information or compelling arguments, demonstrating intellectual humility.
It’s essential to differentiate between healthy debate and unproductive conflict [fights]. While debate stimulates critical thinking and drives innovation, conflict characterized by personal attacks, hostility, and stubbornness stifles progress and undermines organizational cohesion. As my agricultural policy professor and mentor, the late Dr. Barry Flinchbaugh, was fond of saying, “Good policy happens between the 40-yard lines.”
This is so true in many aspects of life, as he also noted, “Compromise is not a dirty word.”
For over 100 years, NIAA has fostered an environment of healthy, civil discourse. We don’t “fight” – a word I would personally like to see removed from the business and association lexicon. We live our mission – convening animal agriculture experts and allies in collaborative settings to explore, discuss, learn, and develop knowledge that fosters interdisciplinary cooperation for the improvement and continuous progress of animal agriculture.
Debate and disagreement are indispensable for the vitality and growth of animal agriculture. Civil discourse serves as the cornerstone of this process, promoting respectful engagement, fostering innovation, and strengthening decision-making. By upholding the principles of civil discourse, organizations can harness the power of diverse perspectives to navigate challenges, seize opportunities, and thrive in an ever-evolving landscape.
Oh, and I would propose this is most difficult via conference calls, web-based meetings, or e-mail and impossible on social media platforms. Civil discourse is best in-person.
We’ll save you a seat at the next NIAA convening so you can be part of charting the future of animal agriculture!J.J. Jones
NIAA Executive Director
