An uncompromising compromise
Uncompromisingness can be a sign of moral backbone, but also of dogmatic intransigence. How to navigate a sensible route between the two?
Are you an uncompromising person? Possessing this characteristic (or not) escapes easy social desirability considerations. Is it better to answer the question in the affirmative, and present yourself as resolute and steadfast, principled and determined, dedicated and unwavering, than to deny the label, and be seen as hesitant and vacillating, meek and a bit spineless, willing and ready to bargain about anything? Or is it better to reject the categorization and state that you are a pragmatic realist, capable of nuanced judgment, prepared to give and take to realize a win-win, than to come across as an dogmatic hardliner, obstinate and intransigent, unwilling to give an inch?
Imagine being a parent who occasionally treats the children to what they all agree is the best ice cream in town. One day, it turns out that the owner of the gelateria is an outspoken supporter of a political movement that is beyond the pale in your circle of friends. Will you uncompromisingly choose no longer to frequent this shop and gain the respect of your peers (and the unfathomable disappointment of your kids), or compromise and ensure the ongoing provision of…
