to think few of us ever really change our opinions

[whoopsnomore]

Thinking about another thread on here at them moment and how we take polarised stances on so many issues. I wonder whether there is real "debate" and respectful discussion. Has anyone honestly listened to someone else's views on a political, moral or philosophical topic and (or the royal Family ) and actually been persuaded and changed their mind?

I was brought up in a home with some pretty deep held right wing beliefs thanks to a parent who was brought up by Victorian DGPs.
I changed a lot of my early held opinions when I got into the real world. It happens.

Not necessarily expected, but good to be open to the possibility

Listening and having an inquisitive mind, yes.

However, changing one's mind is not something inherently desirable as some seem to believe. Changing your opinions will not always guarantee a favourable outcome for you or others.

I find it patronising and rather offensive when others insistently bend over backwards so that others are educated and change their minds. Maybe they just don't want to or don't agree. I find it counterproductive TBH

Like a few others, I grew up in a conservative home, with fairly traditional christian views on sexuality, marriage etc . I think observing, listening to and learning from other people happened in different phases when I was exposed to new experiences at various points in my life. I am not sure anyone ever "argued" me into a new point of view (though I am stubborn as hell on being told what to think!)
Also like quite a few PP Mumsnet has opened my mind and my eyes to a few things...
But there is still a lot of rigid thinking out there.

But there is still a lot of rigid thinking out there

Well, you could replace 'rigid' with:

Strong-willed, determined, resolute
Consistent
Critical, sceptical, questioning
Not gullible/ easily swayed or influenced

All positive characteristics IMO

My

My political views have changed, I used to be quite left wing, as I've aged and gone through some very bad times myself, my views have moved to right of centre.

I've changed my mind on a few things.

The teaching threads have made me realise that we are asking a lot of people to stand in front of unvaccinated pupils all day.
I was vehemently anti Brexit, but now seeing how the UK has had flexibility to negotiate our own deals and are vaccinating faster than the rest of Europe mired in bureaucracy, I'm not so sure.

I'm always swayed by a good argument, especially if I have an opinion on something I know nothing about. I will always listen to someone more qualified than me then make my own decision.

I also think that time changes attitudes, mine included. For example, when I was a teenager only sailors and rough people had tattoos (I'm talking about over 40 years ago). Now they are commonplace - even DD has some tattoos. I'm still not keen on "in your face" tattoos. I prefer the less is more type, but I would never judge anyone for having loads of tattoos (except for face tattoos, which IMO are ill thought out).

I changed a lot of my opinions on how to raise a baby once I actually had one. I must have been insufferable