The feeling of being silenced is one that is never appreciated. Whether under the influence of gatekeeping, or under the influence of expectation, having an opinion not within the majority only serves to peoples' detriment.
Elisabeth Noelle-Neumann, a German scholar, developed something called the Spiral of Silence theory. Those with opinions within the minority are compelled to keep quiet for fear of retribution from the majority. We should be persuaded not to say anything if we have something different to say. This is becoming something extremely prevalent in today's world, and honestly, why does it exist?
Is it a protective shield? Is the retribution of the majority that dangerous? I feel as if there are so many causes that get washed out due to the Spiral of Silence. So many voices are drowned out when the Spiral of Silence is in effect. Why do we seem to make sure the minority's voices are not heard? Minorities in our minds can mean so many things, but to me, minorities mean ideas that don't ring true with your own perception.
I challenge all of you to listen to the voice you don't agree with. I want you to listen to other perspectives. Don't fall victim to a debilitating social theory.
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