Imagine two individuals standing on opposite sides of a numeral etched on the ground. One sees a 6, the other a 9. This simple yet profound exercise reveals that perspective is the lens through which we perceive reality. It’s a truth that echoes through humanity’s perpetual divisions – in politics, faith, and morality – where we stand on opposite sides, seeing different truths.
However, even if one were to switch places with the other, the new perspective might not necessarily alter their views. This is because our understanding of the world is not merely a product of where we stand physically; it is deeply ingrained in who we are—our beliefs, experiences, and cultural conditioning. It’s a phenomenon encoded in human DNA, influencing everything from personal choices to collective morality.
A poignant example of this dynamic occurred in Nigeria a few years ago. James Ibori, a former governor of Delta State, returned home after serving a prison sentence in the United Kingdom for embezzling public funds. To the astonishment of many, the Delta State government rolled out the red carpet, celebrating his return with pomp and pageantry. It seemed inconceivable: why celebrate someone convicted of looting the very state he was elected to serve?
Seeking clarity, I reached out to a friend from Delta State. His response was both startling and illuminating. Instead of addressing the moral implications of Ibori’s actions, he asked, “Na only Ibori be thief? Other governors wey thief, wetin them do them? Ibori na our own.”
In those few words, he encapsulated a prevalent but troubling mindset. The argument wasn’t about right or wrong, justice or accountability; it was about identity and allegiance. To many, Ibori’s actions were excusable because he was seen as “our own.” This rationale is symptomatic of a broader issue—a moral relativism that underpins much of human behavior.
Saints and Sinners: The Politics of Morality
To understand this phenomenon, one must recognize that saints and sinners are not universal archetypes. They are labels assigned by communities, often based on subjective criteria. Consider how religious or political groups sometimes rally behind deeply flawed individuals, dismissing their transgressions while vilifying others for far less egregious actions. A convicted felon, drug dealer, or even mass murderer might be embraced if they align with the group’s interests or identity, while a cross-dresser or homosexual—perceived as harmless by any objective standard—is castigated and ostracized.
This selective morality underscores a critical point: what we consider virtuous or villainous is often less about objective truths and more about tribalism. We protect “our own” while condemning “the other.” This duality shapes everything from local politics to global conflicts, perpetuating cycles of division and discord.
The Roots of Divergence: Nature, Nurture, and Bias
Why do humans struggle to agree on fundamental issues? The answer lies in a complex interplay of nature and nurture. Evolution has wired us to prioritize survival, often at the expense of broader truths. We gravitate towards those who share our language, culture, religion, or worldview because such alliances historically increased our chances of survival. This instinct, while beneficial in prehistoric times, has become a source of division in an interconnected world.
Cultural and societal factors further entrench these biases. From a young age, we are socialised into specific ways of thinking, absorbing the prejudices and values of our communities. Over time, these beliefs become so deeply embedded that even exposure to opposing views often fails to sway us. Instead, we filter information through the lens of our existing biases, reinforcing our original perspectives.
The Ibori Effect: A Microcosm of Global Trends
The James Ibori saga is not unique to Nigeria. Across the globe, similar patterns emerge. Political leaders accused of corruption, human rights abuses, or other crimes are often shielded by their supporters, who dismiss allegations as politically motivated or irrelevant. In some cases, these figures are even celebrated as heroes, their flaws reimagined as strengths.
This phenomenon is particularly evident in democratic societies, where elections often become contests of identity rather than ideology. Voters align themselves with candidates who reflect their cultural, religious, or ethnic identity, overlooking scandals or incompetence. The result is a political landscape where accountability takes a backseat to loyalty.
The Paradox of Progress
In theory, globalisation and technological advancements should foster greater understanding and unity. The internet has made it possible to access diverse perspectives, bridging gaps between cultures and ideologies. Yet, paradoxically, it has also deepened divisions. Social media platforms, for instance, often serve as echo chambers, amplifying existing biases and fostering tribalism. Rather than challenging our views, we surround ourselves with like-minded individuals, further entrenching our beliefs.
This paradox reflects a fundamental tension in human nature. While we have the capacity for empathy and understanding, we also possess an innate resistance to change. The more our beliefs are challenged, the more we cling to them, often doubling down in the face of contradictory evidence. This phenomenon, known as the “backfire effect,” helps explain why debates on contentious issues—from climate change to social justice—rarely lead to consensus.
Towards a More Inclusive Perspective
If humanity is to overcome its divisions, it must confront the root causes of its divergent views. This begins with acknowledging the limitations of our perspectives. Recognising that a 6 can also be a 9 is not an admission of defeat; it is a step towards greater understanding. By embracing empathy and humility, we can begin to bridge the gaps that divide us.
Education plays a crucial role in this process. Teaching critical thinking skills and fostering open-mindedness can help individuals navigate complex issues with greater nuance. Encouraging dialogue between opposing groups can also promote mutual understanding, breaking down the barriers that fuel division.
On a broader scale, institutions and leaders must prioritize inclusivity and accountability. Rather than exploiting divisions for personal or political gain, they should seek to unite diverse communities around shared values and goals. This requires courage and vision, qualities often lacking in today’s polarized world.
Conclusion: A Call to Action
The world’s inability to agree on fundamental issues is a reflection of its diversity, but it is also a challenge that must be addressed. As the James Ibori example illustrates, our tendency to prioritize identity over morality undermines progress and perpetuates injustice. To build a more equitable and harmonious world, we must learn to see beyond our biases, recognising the humanity in those who stand on the other side of the numeral.
This journey begins with each of us. By questioning our assumptions, engaging with opposing views, and fostering empathy, we can create a society where perspective enhances understanding rather than fueling division. In doing so, we may finally move closer to the elusive ideal of consensus, transforming the 6s and 9s of our world into a shared vision of progress and unity.Photo credit