This quote essentially highlights the importance of individuality, critical thinking, and challenging the status quo. When “two or more people agree on an issue,” they form a consensus or a majority opinion. By choosing to “form on the other side,” the speaker is expressing a desire to question this consensus, to explore alternative viewpoints, or to simply maintain a unique perspective.

This is not to be contrarian for the sake of being contrarian, but rather to ensure that all viewpoints are considered, and not just those that are popular or widely accepted. It’s about fostering intellectual diversity and avoiding groupthink, a phenomenon where people strive for consensus within a group, often neglecting to critically analyze alternative viewpoints and ideas.

In today’s world, this idea is particularly relevant in the face of echo chambers and filter bubbles, particularly on social media, where algorithms and user behavior can lead to a narrow view of the world, reinforcing one’s existing beliefs and shutting out any dissenting or differing opinions. It encourages us to actively seek out and consider perspectives that differ from our own, promoting a more comprehensive understanding of issues.

In terms of personal development, this quote can be seen as a call to cultivate intellectual independence. It encourages us to form our own opinions, rather than simply adopting the views of those around us. By doing so, we not only broaden our horizons and enrich our understanding, but also strengthen our critical thinking skills, which are crucial in both our personal and professional lives.

However, it’s important to note that this doesn’t mean rejecting popular opinion for the sake of it, but rather ensuring we’ve explored all perspectives before forming our own. It’s about being open-minded and willing to question, not just accepting things at face value.