The word “understand” is considered synonymous with “appreciate,” and “identify with.” However, when we“understand” something, we may not always be able to identify with it. For instance, I can understand, logically, from Hitler's view-point, why he wanted to exterminate the Jewish race, but I can not “identify with” this thought process or the actions that came from it, and I definitely can not “appreciate” it as a sound methodology for life. I believe that there are many things that I will “understand" because to understand is to except what is, as it is. I do not have to value it or believe in it to understand it.
When we are able to understand something, we are becoming knowledgeable of the world around us. Essentially wisdom is a gathered by knowing a past, being aware of a present, and acknowledging a future; this is all we really have. To take away the right of one’s ability to think is to hinder that person’s ability to understand any concept, and therefore all concepts throughout time.
Great essay!
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