I have had a lot of things on my mind lately and was inspired to write my thoughts on the difference between debating and contemplating.
Debate is a discussion of opposing viewpoints.
You will often hear people claim that debates aren’t personal. Don’t believe them. Anytime there are winners and losers, it is personal. Those who tend to like debate are typically bullheaded and think they continue to rack up victories, although all that is really happening is people just get tired of talking with them and leave.
Rather than think about alternative views, debate simply argues opposing views. Arguing opposing views never solves problems because problem solving is a creative process. Look to politics to see how productive debate can be. With debate everyone loses.
Contemplating is to observe and study thoughtfully.
With contemplating the focus is on thinking, not mindlessly arguing. I have had the pleasure of contemplating many topics over the years with my lovely wife. When we contemplate issues we bring our viewpoints together and synthesize greater knowledge and understanding. The whole process is uplifting and never contentious. Everyone wins because everyone participates in the thinking and the learning. Contemplation is a creative process.
To me contemplating is embodied by the image of a bench overlooking a beautiful ocean. Take the opportunity to sit down together with people at this bench and thoughtfully observe and study issues.