As you say, there is always a risk/benefit calculation when engaging in any conversation, whether with a stranger, or with a long-time friend. Having been raised in an environment where questioning dogma was like talking into a black hole, I have decided life is too short not to stand up for my worldview. However, it's also important to me not to develop dogma. I always want to be in a mental space where I can hear others, even if we disagree. Also, kindness matters.
I think dogma can have its rightful place in our society - some people really seem to need it. Others seem to find it comforting when so little of their personal world makes sense. It provides a type of framework, providing answers while taking away so many questions. Unfortunately, dogma always seems to be so vulnerable to abuses of power which tend to lift some people up at the expense of others.
As you say, there is always a risk/benefit calculation when engaging in any conversation, whether with a stranger, or with a long-time friend. Having been raised in an environment where questioning dogma was like talking into a black hole, I have decided life is too short not to stand up for my worldview. However, it's also important to me not to develop dogma. I always want to be in a mental space where I can hear others, even if we disagree. Also, kindness matters.
I think dogma can have its rightful place in our society - some people really seem to need it. Others seem to find it comforting when so little of their personal world makes sense. It provides a type of framework, providing answers while taking away so many questions. Unfortunately, dogma always seems to be so vulnerable to abuses of power which tend to lift some people up at the expense of others.