Summary: In this note, the writer describes the aggressive behavior of dogs when they gather, highlighting the parallels between canine conflicts and human disputes. Dogs engage in aggressive posturing, circling each other and resorting to physical aggression until one retreats.
Similarly, humans often escalate disagreements in gatherings, leading to strained relationships and fractured friendships. The writer emphasizes the importance of resolving conflicts through civilized discourse rather than resorting to aggressive behavior.
He urges readers to avoid escalating disagreements and instead maintain harmony through humor and light-heartedness. The note concludes with a plea for greater consideration of the consequences of arguments and debates in social settings.
Writer’s brief introduction: The note is attributed to Sir Syed Ahmad Khan, a prominent figure known for his contributions to education and social reform in 19th-century India. Sir Syed was a pioneer in advocating for modern education among Muslims and fostering communal harmony. His writings often addressed social issues and promoted progressive ideas, making him a significant figure in Indian history.
Human disputes and the art of civil discourse
When dogs gather together, they first raise their tails and exchange glances with malicious intent, then a faint growl begins to emanate from their nostrils. Then, as their jaws slightly part and their teeth become visible, a low growl emerges, followed by barks and snarls.
Soon, they start circling each other, ears pinned back, noses wrinkled, and teeth bared, saliva dripping from their mouths as they stand upright with eerie howls, ready to pounce. One grips the other by the neck, another by the waist, one’s ear in the other’s mouth, and one’s tail in the other’s jaws. They bite and claw, until one weakens and retreats, tail between its legs.
Similar discord ensues even among humans in gatherings. They initially exchange pleasantries, then engage in slow, measured conversation. One speaks, the other retorts, “Ah, you know nothing.”
The other responds, “You know nothing.”
Their gazes change, their postures shift, their faces turn fearful, their ears flatten, their claws extend, and their breath quickens. They exhibit strange behaviors, voices raised in agitation, hands reaching out, grabbing each other by the necks and gripping their beards. Tempers flare. If someone intervenes, they push them away, and if no one does, the weaker one retreats, clutching their clothes, while the stronger one shoves them aside and leaves.
As civilization progresses, such disputes diminish. Sometimes, arguments fade away, other times, they escalate, but they always result in strained relations and dwindling friendships. It is imperative for humans to refrain from arguing with their friends like dogs.
Disagreements are natural among people, and resolving them through debate and discussion is the hallmark of civility and sophistication. However, engaging in relentless argumentation and discord leads to the deterioration of relationships and the eventual loss of cherished bonds, such as friendship.
When you find yourself in a gathering where diverse opinions converge, avoid allowing disagreements and disputes to arise, as they only serve to alienate both parties. As speeches grow longer and become more intense, cut them short and lighten the mood with jokes and laughter. I urge my compatriots to consider the consequences of debates and arguments in these gatherings.
Rashid Siddiqui is a Senior Cybersecurity professional with multi-faceted international experience; expertise in managing the Corporate and IT Cyber Security and Technical Risk of Telecommunication, Banking and IT industries.
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