Why do we, particularly senior citizens, behave adamantly on many occasions, despite being well educated and having worked previously at senior positions of repute?
Why do we become so touchy about our own ideas?
Why do we, particularly from my region ie South Asians, always debate and discuss, and try to thrust our ideas or opinions down the throat of others?
“I am right, and you are wrong.” Is the slogan we live by.
Why do we become so obstinate with our thoughts, ideas and opinions?
Not that people from other regions are not, but in my experience of working with so many nationalities, I would put forward my points and they (from regions other than South Asia) would, their own. If there is a divergence, we still depart on a good note. This is seldom the case with my regional friends. We will raise our voices, aggressively show our dissent and always try to prove that “what I said is correct.”
I find this behavior OBNOXIOUS.
I had found this long time ago when I was at school and on so many occasions, we fought over trifle matters. It taught me to stop unnecessary discussions. Now again when I am of senior age, I find at times embroiled in similar battles – which I HATE.
A famous author also has a book titled, Argumentative XXXXXXX. This is so true. Drawing room talks and discussions are a pastime.
Could there be a genetic reason or is it just the upbringing and cultural.
Some reasons could be the effect of medication that we may be taking. Hypertension could also induce such behaviors. Another could be rigidity that comes with age. Further, many of us who retired at senior positions find ourselves a nobody, that we try to impress forcefully upon others of our importance.
The divide and aggressiveness in our region could also come from daily struggles being faced by most, not necessarily monetary, but anything like going to a bank and getting some work done, or getting a gas cylinder, or hassles of shopping, or servants not coming on time or being absent, or impoliteness of many around us, or even driving. Tensions are always high. This could then percolate in our daily discussions.
There is no study that shows different levels of obstinacy amongst people of differing regions. So, it could be more cultural.
So the advice is to refrain, be polite and respectful of ALL.