Consider other points of view

By Michael Nash, Las Vegas

Tuesday, Dec. 16, 2014 | 2 a.m.

We all have a tendency to read about and listen to political opinions that agree with our own. It would be a very healthy thing if everyone read just one book that explains the political opinion opposite theirs. This doesn’t mean they have to adopt those opinions, just read and consider them.

People could choose one of the books liberals or conservatives consider to be the best explanations of their philosophy. They are easy to find with an Internet search.

For example, I am a conservative. I searched the Internet to find what liberals consider the best books that explain liberalism. I chose one called “A People’s History of the United States” by Howard Zinn. I bought it, and I am reading it now. I do not find the arguments made in the book to be persuasive. But at least I am reading about, learning about and considering another point of view.

In my opinion, one of the best books that explains the conservative point of view is “Free To Choose” by Milton Friedman, who was a prominent economist.

I think if we all read one book about the other side’s point of view, we would be better informed about the other side’s perspective. At least we would understand better why they think the way they do. And we might even learn something. And a better informed public is always a great thing for democracy.