Difference of opinion in itself is not a negative phenomenon; rather, it is a natural result of the multiplicity of ideas, convictions, and social and cultural backgrounds, and a manifestation of the vitality of society and the interest of its members in the course of public affairs. However, the problem does not lie in the existence of disagreement, but in the way it is managed and dealt with, and the ability to transform it from a state of polarization and division into a tool for dialogue and popular participation.
Observers of the discussions taking place on social media notice two contrasting images of managing disagreement; the first is where opinions are expressed in a civilized manner based on presenting arguments, listening to the other opinion, discussing it, and respecting the right of its holder to adhere to it. As for the second, some discussions turn into a state of emotion and rejection of the opposing opinion, and the matter may move from discussing the idea to attacking its holder and questioning their motives and positions.
This difference of opinion finds its basis in the constitutional protection of freedom of opinion and expression, as Article (15) of the Constitution guaranteed every Jordanian the right to freely express their opinion by speech, writing, photography, and other means of expression within the limits of the law. This right is not linked to the nature of the position adopted by the individual, nor to whether they are a supporter of a government decision or a public activity or an opponent of it, but rather relates to guaranteeing their right to express their point of view regarding public issues and events. The essence of freedom of opinion appears primarily when there is disagreement, not when there is agreement.
However, the issue does not stop at the limits of recognizing the right of individuals to express their opinions, but extends to how the state benefits from this divergence in positions. The ongoing discussion about public issues is an important indicator for measuring societal trends and allows the decision-maker to identify different viewpoints and understand the reasons for support and objection, which contributes to reviewing and developing policies.
The importance of this divergence is not limited to the indicators it provides to the decision-maker, but extends to the possibility of transforming it into a tool to activate participation in public affairs. A citizen who cares about a specific issue and expresses their position on it shows an interest in public affairs and a desire to influence them from their personal perspective. The challenge lies in moving this interest from mere discussion on social media to actual participation in parliamentary and local elections, and in civil society institutions and various forms of public work.
In this context, the role of political parties is particularly prominent, as they are supposed to be one of the primary arenas for organizing disagreement and transforming divergent trends and opinions into clear political programs and positions. The role of a political party should not be limited to social activity during election seasons, but should extend to interacting with issues that occupy society, adopting positions on them, defending them, and seeking to attract citizens whose opinions are close to its programs and orientations, which enhances partisan work and expands the base of participation in decision-making.
Democratic societies are not based on everyone agreeing on an opinion, nor is their strength measured by the absence of differences in them, but by their ability to manage them within a framework of law and mutual respect. Hence, the disagreement of Jordanians on public issues can be an asset to the state if it is well managed, and it can turn from a cause of division into an entry point for dialogue, and from fleeting discussions on social media into effective political and societal participation that contributes to decision-making and enhances the citizen's presence in public affairs.
* Professor of Constitutional Law at the Faculty of Law, University of Jordan
