The best way to open people's minds isn't to argue with them. It's to listen to them. When people feel understood, they become less defensive and more reflective—and develop less extreme, more nuanced views. Productive disagreements begin with curiosity, not persuasion.
“Exactly. The point here is that most reasonable people don’t have to get their way in a discussion. They just need to be heard, and to know that their input was considered and responded to.”
Creating space starts with listening rather than anticipating disagreements.
Instead of launching right into your beliefs, listen carefully to what the other people in the discussion think. Ask constructive questions as well. Develop a good understanding of their positions, repeating back parts of their argument to ensure that you have complete comprehension. Only then should you interject your own thoughts, and you should
... See moreThe power of listening doesn’t lie just in giving people the space to reflect on their views. It’s a display of respect and an expression of care.