I hold the principle of open-mindedness higher because I personally don't see a downside to it. Closed-mindedness always struck me as a symptom of insecurity. B

I hold the principle of open-mindedness higher because I personally don't see a downside to it. Closed-mindedness always struck me as a symptom of insecurity. Being insecure about something like the criminality of child sexual exploitation doesn't sound like something I ever want to espouse, so if you want to tell me why you think it's a good idea, I'll listen (the likely outcome being the conclusion that you're a whacko, and moving on). Being open-minded doesn't mean I'll sit still while someone endlessly or facetiously justifies an objectionable notion. If I've heard it before, or it's insincere, I'll dismiss it outright, as I imagine you would. But on principle, I'll listen to an earnest attempt to demonstrate the merit of anything, even something I'd otherwise categorically reject. You might not influence my position in the slightest, but being open-minded doesn't mean easily persuaded, either. It just means being willing to incorporate new information or ideas in your decision-making process.