A volcano of opinions

In our daily interactions, we often encounter people who seem to have an opinion on all subjects. Even as you speak with such persons, you realise that their knowledge on the subject is limited, but not their opinion on the subject. Rolf Dobelli terms this as the 'opinion volcano'.

This raises the question: do you need to have an opinion on all subjects? Is not having an opinion a sign of intellectual weakness? Or is it just you being smart? Would you not be better off identifying subjects and topics that interest you, getting to know them, and then forming an opinion on such topics and issues?

Opinions given offhand by ill- informed people invariably are the result of a lazy intellect. As Plato has said, opinion is the medium between knowledge and ignorance. It is 'really the lowest form of knowledge since it requires no accountability'. Such people also suffer from spiritual poverty.


However, making informed decisions is a responsibility we all share. We should be aware of our limitations, be aware of what we are saying, think before we speak and not speak ill of others. This caution can lead to more considered opinions and better decisions.

So, next time you catch yourself giving an opinion on a subject you do not know, bite your tongue and confidently say I do not know enough on this subject to have an opinion. You will be respected much more.