We’ve all witnessed the back-and-forth arguments on social media, as well as those in person, where people debate a political or other emotion-driven topic, and logical discourse very quickly turns to vicious personal insults.
There seems to be a misconception that unless you yell, scream, or insult that person or persons, you’re somehow “giving in” to the other side.
Unfortunately, more and more these days, rather than citing differences in opinion, we see attacks on the person himself or herself. This must stop if productive communication and mutual understanding is indeed a goal.
Key Point: Tact is not the same as compromise. We can always speak tactfully, kindly, and respectfully to others without compromising our values.
Know what else? It also helps in the persuasion process. Others are actually much more likely to open their minds when they don’t feel attacked and maligned.
On the other hand, I’ve never seen anyone change their mind after being called an idiot! 🙂
Important to Remember: It’s always helpful to ask ourselves why we are in this discussion in the first place. Is it to enact change or just blow off steam? Is it to pull people together or to push apart?
And no one says you *have* to debate a topic with someone who you feel lives by the code: “My mind is made up; don’t confuse me with the facts.”
However, if you’re going to engage, at least make the experience positive and uplifting for all.
Exercise: Before engaging in any type of debate, first determine your purpose. Then ask yourself if doing so is the highest priority and best use of your time. (It truly may not be!) Then, should you decide to proceed, set the example of kind, respectful, and persuasive communication.
