Watch the video above and talk about it with a group or mentor. Learn more.
The more we talk about politics, the more potential there is for fighting.
Key Points:
- Politics is divisive because it’s a personal subject for many people. Your well-being and even your finances can be affected by changes in politics. That’s stressful!
- You don’t want to be getting into arguments at events like a wedding or a holiday. Another thing to remember is that not everyone in the room is going to agree with you, and you can’t expect them to. The only way to do this effectively is when all parties, including you, are willing to listen and learn.
- No matter how you approach political dialogue, there is still a chance you may end up in a pretty heated debate. The first tip in this situation is to use facts.
- Have an exit strategy. You have to be willing to swallow your pride and opinions and just leave the room. This doesn’t mean you are giving up on your convictions, it just means you are heading to more civil territory.
- Etiquette is important in this setting because it is a tool you can use to bridge political difference. It will help you to have more civil conversations, and maybe even learn something new.
Quote This:
In a lifetime of observing and participating in political debate, I have seen a lot of meanness. -Dennis Prager
Talk About It
- What is your initial reaction to this topic? What jumped out at you?
- Have you ever found yourself in a heated political debate? What happened?
- Describe a time that you found yourself turning into a politics monster.
- Make a list of some “exit strategies” for if you find yourself in a debate with someone who is getting a little too passionate.
- Write a personal action step based on this conversation.
This is part of the Let’s Talk Politics series.
