In polarized times, it’s tempting to retreat further into our echo chambers. Instead, consider how much we all have to gain by connecting with those who see things differently than we do. We’ve brought together some of the best advice on how to have a productive conversation with someone you disagree with, as well as proven tips for how to change someone’s mind, and the science behind how our brains process different methods of persuasion.
Whether you’re trying to see eye to eye with a colleague, repair a relationship, or attempt to untangle a loved one’s problematic beliefs, our guide will arm you with the techniques you need.
Getting Started
How to Listen — Really Listen — to Someone You Don’t Agree With
TED
Listening may not be the most exciting part of conversation, but it’s essential if you want to have a meaningful exchange with another person.
How to Find Common Ground When It Seems Impossible
Fast Company
Sometimes, workplace conflict seems insurmountable. Here’s how to get to a place of agreement.
Effecting Change
How to Change a Mind
Forge
Missy spent more than five years getting her husband to leave a cult, but the breakthrough was simple.
Conversations on Polarizing Topics Are Possible. If You’re Up for It, Here’s How to Start
Behavioral Scientist
Although they make me feel like I’m treading on thin ice, these difficult conversations are important to have.
Why Hostility Can Bring People Closer Together
Scientific American
“Hostile mediators” can be a surprisingly powerful tool in resolving conflict.
How to (Actually) Change Someone’s Mind
Harvard Business Review
Much of leadership boils down to turning adversaries into allies.
Broaching Politics
How to Talk to Friends With Different Political Views
Teen Vogue
Here’s some advice on how to go about it.
How Therapists Talk To Their Family Members With Different Political Views
Huffington Post
How to avoid a big argument about politics with your loved ones.
Keeping It Civil: How To Talk Politics Without Letting Things Turn Ugly
NPR
Talking about controversial topics with your political opposite can feel like an exercise in futility. One tip, experts say, is to establish common ground as quickly as you can.
The Science of It All
How Political Opinions Change
Scientific American
A clever experiment shows it’s surprisingly easy to change someone’s political views, revealing how flexible we are.
Why Facts Don’t Change Our Minds
James Clear
Truth and accuracy are not the only things that matter to the human mind. Humans also seem to have a deep desire to belong.
Can Empathy Bridge Political Divides?
Greater Good
Yes, says sociologist Robb Willer—but the effort needs to be respectful and mutual.
Extreme Cases
How to Talk Someone Out of Bigotry
Vox
These scientists keep proving that reducing prejudice is possible. It’s just not easy.
How Twitter Helped Change The Mind Of A Westboro Baptist Church Member [LISTEN]
NPR
“I started to feel like I was becoming part of this community on Twitter. And that was the first time that I really felt ashamed of what I was doing.”
We Need to Talk About Talking About QAnon
Wired
Not talking about it is no longer an option, so we need to find a way to talk about it better.
