Final answer:
Opinions get divided due to a range of factors like individual perspectives, societal traditions, global events, and political beliefs. When these contrasting views surface in the form of debates and counter-movements, divisions of opinion sharpen.
Step-by-step explanation:
The differences in opinions, however, are a natural part of a diverse society and have played a role in societal progress over time.
division of opinion can be attributed to a multitude of factors. For example, during the time of the initial formation of human society, differing perspectives were generation due to each individual forming their own ideas. This was the result of the absence of any centralized law or governance that could bring the entire community onto a single platform of thought. Therefore, the more the number of people, the greater was the variety in perspectives.Opinions were deeply divided as societies evolved and introduced complex issues such as rights, liberties, and sectionalism into the mix. This diversity in thought sometimes led to fierce debates and counter movements, all of which led to further division.
Public opinion also often changes with surprising events. For instance, after the 9/11 attacks, public opinion about Muslims surprisingly improved. Another factor that plays a vital role in dividing opinion is societal traditions, public opinion, and politics. Schools were once segregated by race until desegregation was ordered by Court in Brown v. Board of Education (1954). However, this was met with opposition and protests. Similar divisions are seen in debates about abortion, handgun rights, LGBTQ rights and many more. This shows that any topic that touches upon personal beliefs and values would result in divided opinions.
Elite opinions and pressure from colleagues also divide opinion. For instance, when the new constitution was introduced in the US, opinions were deeply divided between Federalists and Anti-Federalists, each side pushing for their own vision of the future. Similarly, in scientific communities, the pressure of knowing that most colleagues disagreed with an opinion would lead to further division among the members. These varied opinions, in turn, led to a greater evolution of thought and societal advancement.
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