Re: [Paddlewise] Opinions

KayakherSC_at_aol.com wrote:

> Interestingly enough, "whatever works for you" is exactly what Nigel Foster
> advises after he's presented the information, including his own experience and
> opinion, on a particular topic.  I personally am much more comfortable with
> that approach to instruction than with know-it-all attitudes which tend to
> turn me off, know matter how much they know. Each to his own, I guess!  :)
> Sandy

This *is* interesting. Are you saying that if Nigel were *not* to make
his "whatever works for you" statement (or similar statements), but
instead simply asserted his beliefs with passion and conviction, then
you would conclude that he has a "know-it-all" attitude, and you would
be offended by this? Many people who present their views without
expressing tiresome and unnecessary qualifications are not "know it
alls". There is a difference between stating one's opinions forcefully
(leaving all of the trite qualifications unstated) and believing that
one is infallible or "has all of the answers". Of course I realize that
some people are not comfortable around those who express their opinions
forcefully. Perhaps it is a cultural issue. In the environment in which
I work my colleagues would think me weird--or at least a little bit
slow--if I suddenly felt the need to "clarify" for the benefit of others
I am merely expressing my beliefs. (As opposed to what? The divine
truth?) To assume that someone is a "know-it-all" simply because they
are forceful in their views strikes me as judgmental. But of course this
is just my opinion. (Yawn.)

As you say, to each his (or her) own.

Dan Hagen
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