ReThinking

How to have good arguments with world debate champion Bo Seo

Nov 29, 2022

In this engaging discussion, Bo Seo, a world debate champion and author of "Good Arguments," shares his journey from avoiding arguments to mastering them. He emphasizes the importance of constructive debate in sharpening our thinking and improving communication. Bo provides strategies for handling disagreements, including engaging with bullies and creating common ground. He also highlights how healthy arguments can enhance personal relationships and education, urging us to embrace differing viewpoints for growth.

45:25

Creator website

Episode guests

Bo Seo

AI Chapters

Episode notes

Intro

2min

From Fear to Mastery: The Journey of a World Debate Champion

2min

Rethinking Debate Dynamics

15min

Engaging with Bullies: Effective Strategies

13min

Rapid-Fire Debate Insights

2min

Embracing Disagreement for Growth

12min

Growing up, Bo Seo avoided arguments at all costs–until he discovered competitive debate. He went on to win the world debate championship twice and coach the Australian national team as well as the Debating Union at Harvard. Adam and Bo discuss the value of good arguments, how key debate skills pushes us to sharpen our thinking, and how we can get better at disagreeing. Bo’s new book “Good Arguments: How Debate Teaches Us to Listen and Be Heard,” is out now. This episode first aired on The Next Big Idea podcast. You can listen to The Next Big Idea wherever you’re listening to this.

For the full text transcript, visit ted.com/podcasts/rethinking-with-adam-grant-transcripts

Want to help shape TED’s shows going forward? Fill out our survey!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Remember Everything You Learn from Podcasts

Save insights instantly, chat with episodes, and build lasting knowledge - all powered by AI.