Conversations on Polarizing Topics Are Possible. If You’re Up for It, Here’s How to Start - By Caitlyn Finton - Behavioral Scientist
behavioralscientist.org
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The necessity of engaging in difficult conversations
As people, we develop our ideas by interacting with others, testing our thinking, and getting feedback. Discussing controversial topics with our family and peers helps us learn and grow.
However, these conversations can reveal potentially relationship-ending opinions. Losing out on these conversations makes us more estranged and entrenched in our own ways of thinking.
Some tips can help you to approach these conversations and keep discussions productive.
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Consider the other person's background
Before you start a conversation with someone, take a moment to consider how their life may have shaped their opinions.
People's experiences and beliefs may change how people interact with scientific evidence. People don't trust science on certain topics because they don't yet know enough about it.
The solution is to simply tell people the facts, remedying their knowledge deficit and increasing support for scientific ideas.
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Use personal stories
You can shape a person's mind on a controversial topic with the "deep canvassing" technique.
Deep canvassing uses a person's specific experiences to change their views on a topic. It is done by guiding them through nonjudgmental conversations about personal narratives related to the topic.
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Actively listen and acknowledge the views of the other person
This conversation strategy involves a variety of verbal and nonverbal cues, such as restating comments, asking questions, and showing your attention.
In addition, don't be afraid to briefly pause a conversation that’s heating up to keep emotions under control. This will help both parties to be more objective in assessing one another's arguments.
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