On reading what you don't necessarily agree with

John Van Reenen is a professor at the London School of Economics and recently wrote an article on the books that inspired him:

I have always located myself on the centre-left, but even in my strident student days I was seen as an incorrigible reactionary by my mainly anarchist friends. Such disdain encouraged me even more into reading Hobbes, Locke, Smith and classical liberal thinkers. Perversely, I think I always enjoy reading Conservative thinkers more than leftist ones. It’s much more fun to have books that really challenge your positions rather than confirming your prejudices.

Reminds me a bit of "chronological snobbery" - and the importance of seeking out views other than your own.