On the importance of diversity of opinion and critical thinking

“Diversity of opinion about a work of art shows that the work is new, complex and vital.” – Oscar Wilde, in the preface to The Picture of Dorian Gray

It’s no secret the humanities to an extent seem to be in crisis. But why? I’d put it up to the way many people consume media these days. Uncritical and unthinking, almost too safe. A diversity of opinions on a piece of media is good because as the above points out it shows the media is worthwhile and vital. Additionally critical thinking is how one breaks down societal barriers and makes change. We’d all be better off respecting one another, letting there be healthy debate over media and thinking critically. It’s good and healthy to enjoy things. It simply stands that nothing is above criticism.