How to have a better argument across the political divide
America is ideologically split, and if the animosity over the 2020 election results is any indication, we
may be fast losing the ability to bridge the divide.
Is there any way to reconnect?
Could we learn how to discuss our beliefs with opposing friends, family and acquaintances perhaps over Zoom or socially distanced get-togethers and have a dialogue in which we disagree, yet emerge on the other side feeling understood?
That’s the premise behind The Better Arguments Project, a civic initiative by the Aspen Institute, Facing History and Ourselves, and Allstate, that wants to teach us how to have more productive arguments. These conversations don’t have to drive us apart, the group says. In fact, by learning to argue ‘better,” we can come together.
When it comes to political talk, you can, in fact, turn your next conversation with a friend or loved one who disagrees with you into a win-win. Here are expert tips from civic initiative The Better Arguments Project.