IT is fairly obvious that people have opposing views on many, if not most, topics.

In a civilised country, we permit people to voice their opinions even though the powers that be frequently ignore them.

Correspondents in the press often express their differing opinions, and one or two quite vehemently criticise, using terms like “ignorance and self-delusion”.

I heard a description of the process of argument the other day.

It goes something like this: A and B hold opposing views. Each thinks the other is a reasonable sort of person, so A explains to B why his opinion is right, B does the same.

Both maintain their original stance. Frustrated, they decide their opponent is a bit dim, so explain again using simple terms. Again, predictably, neither changes their mind.

The result? Tempers rise and both A and B consider the other is evil.

Quite a depressing illustration of how we often try to cope with disagreement, but judging from the recent Brexit experience, fairly accurate.

It seems to me that people hold different views for many reasons; our life experiences form our opinions, and we should surely respect that.

It’s what democracy is all about.

Pamela Brown, Goodwood Grove, York