“I do not have any opinions.” This is a common line tossed about when discussing certain topics, especially those political in nature. This statement is plagued with ignorance. Perhaps the opinions you have do not pertain to the situation at hand, but they definitely exist. 

According to Dictionary.com, an opinion is a personal view, attitude or appraisal. Based on the definition alone, it is impossible for a human being to be without an opinion. It does not have to be who should be the U.S. president, whether there should be plastic cups in the dining hall or whether eating meat is healthy. It can be something simple, such as what movie is the best, what color flatters you the most or a favorite thing to drink. Stating that one has no opinions is, in itself, an opinion. If you are not fond of honey mustard, that is an opinion. 

To say one has no opinions is overestimating the degree of importance an opinion has to have. Having opinions that could, theoretically, cause worldwide change hold more weight than really liking a film. Those who have no opinions simply do not understand how important they are. Every decision made, especially those political in nature, are so incredibly important, whether it be related to economics or social, environmental or immigration policies. Every decision the government makes affects you directly. Issues related to LGTBQ+ affairs affect even those who are not LGBTQ+. Issues related to immigration affect you, even if you are a citizen of the U.S. who lives in central New York. 

The decision on the next president, governor or senator will affect everyone, even those who do not live in the country. Whoever gets elected to those positions makes decisions that affect everyone in the world. They, without exaggeration, have the power to choose to declare war on nations, which, in turn, can dictate who lives and who dies. The votes we have the opportunities to cast are writing history. Not only is it exciting that we have the power to choose, but it also shows how incredible the democratic process is. 

Opinions are constantly existing and swimming through our brains. If someone is walking too slowly ahead of you and you are irritated, that is just as much of an opinion as who should be president. Sure, one probably matters more, but to say you have no opinions is ignorant.