about is not dissent but dialogue. Respectful dialogue is always there and is necessary for the life of the Church. Dissent, by its own title is something different. It can only be "legitimate" in matters of conscience ("informed" conscience being understood). This effectively means that one feels a moral obligation to disagree.
It may be true that many are claiming this kind of personal authority today, but we need to ask some searching questions about conscience. It is not simply a feeling or an "inner voice." The devil can disguise himself as an angel of light (and even a theologian). We must not be naive in this matter. Thank God for the safeguards He has given us in the Church, not only the magisterium, but the wisdom and teaching of the saints. Discernment of spirits is often needed as well as plenty of sound common sense. When we take our own opinions too seriously instead of looking at what God is doing in and through His Church, we are likely to be in danger of exalting our own ideas beyond their importance.
We owe it to each other and to those outside the Church to work for peace and unity of faith. We are all the Church, and each has something to contribute, but we do not all exercise the same ministry and speak with same authority.
Fr John Abberton The Presbytery 146 Centenary Rd Goole