Agree to disagree
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Agree to disagree or "agreeing to disagree" is a phrase in English referring to the resolution of a conflict (usually a debate or quarrel) whereby all parties tolerate but do not accept the opposing position(s). It generally occurs when all sides recognise that further conflict is unnecessary, ineffective or otherwise undesirable. They may also remain on amicable terms while continuing to disagree.
The phrase first appeared in print in 1770 when, at the death of George Whitefield, John Wesley wrote a memorial sermon which acknowledged but downplayed the two men's doctrinal differences: "There are many doctrines of a less essential nature ... In these we may think and let think; we may 'agree to disagree.' But, meantime, let us hold fast the essentials..."[1] Wesley was the first to put the phrase 'agree to disagree' in print.[2]
The phrase "agree to differ" appeared in 1785;[2] its advantage over "agree to disagree" is that it doesn't pose a logical contradiction.[3] Its disadvantage is that it isn't as memorable.
Although the phrase is normally reserved for informal and temporary arrangements in political affairs, the Latin phrase modus vivendi means "way of living", and is used in the same manner as "agree to disagree". However, it can be thought of as a thought-terminating cliché in certain circumstances.
[edit] See also
- Conflict resolution
- Consensus
- Peaceful coexistence
- Cultural pluralism
- Value pluralism
- Pluralism (political philosophy)
- Pluralism (epistemology)
- Modus vivendi
[edit] References
- ^ Global Ministries, The United Methodist Church. Sermons. On the Death of the Rev. Mr. George Whitefield, page 2. Retrieved on 20 April 2009.
- ^ a b The Phrase Finder. Agree to disagree. Retrieved on 20 April 2009.
- ^ Aumann, Robert J. Agreeing to disagree, Institute for Mathematical Studies in the Social Sciences, Stanford University, 1975. Retrieved on 20 April 2009.
