Understanding is good. You don't need to agree with someone but to understand someone is always good.

To see the world through anothers eyes might be the only way how those who view progress as too far can be reached and talked with. How can someone willfully ignorant change their mind?

Understanding isn't something that only ones enemies have to do. Understanding can be a prerequisite of forgiveness and necessary for peace.

Many do not want to understand or forgive for many factors. Understanding these factors is good.

(In a political context, personally I find politicians are able to understand others views most. They understand and can approach those with differing viewpoints)