Intelligence Squared

Persuasion in an Age of Polarisation, with Anand Giridharadas

Nov 4, 2022
Anand Giridharadas, a journalist and best-selling author of The Persuaders, dives into the crisis of healthy debate in today’s polarized society. He emphasizes the need for genuine dialogue over manipulation, advocating for compassion in discussions. The conversation touches on the dual role of advertising in social issues, the importance of framing arguments for positive change, and the fluidity of political identity. Giridharadas also explores how local perspectives can bridge divides on contentious topics like immigration.
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INSIGHT

Despair and Change

  • Many people desire change and despair about its possibility.
  • Anand Giridharadas's book explores persuasion techniques for achieving change in a polarized world.
ADVICE

Persuasion vs. Manipulation

  • Persuasion differs from manipulation based on truth and benefit.
  • Manipulation uses lies and benefits only the manipulator, like cult leaders or demagogues.
INSIGHT

Musk and Tech Barons

  • Elon Musk embodies Twitter's problems, like bigotry and disinformation.
  • Tech barons, like Musk and Zuckerberg, are limited men with immense power.
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