TED Talks Daily Sunday Pick: How to have curious conversations in dangerously divided times (w/ Mónica Guzmán) | How to Be a Better Human
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Sep 14, 2025 Mónica Guzmán, a journalist and author dedicated to bridging political divides, shares her journey as the daughter of Mexican immigrants who voted for Trump. She emphasizes the power of curiosity in fostering understanding, even among those with opposing views. Guzmán provides practical tools for engaging in meaningful conversations and illustrates how listening with intent can build trust. Through personal anecdotes, she reveals how simple acts of curiosity can transform difficult dialogues into enriching connections.
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Family Test Of Assumptions
- Mónica Guzmán often told Seattle liberals that her Mexican immigrant parents voted for Donald Trump to test reactions.
- She used those moments to see whether people would ask "Why?" instead of assuming and walking away.
Polarization Distorts How We See Others
- Polarization blinds us by exaggerating and villainizing the other side's motives and beliefs.
- Mónica says this distortion prevents us from seeing people's real perspectives and makes curiosity essential.
Stop Expecting Instant Persuasion
- Avoid trying to persuade people in a single conversation because persuasion rarely works quickly.
- Instead, focus on listening and building connection so influence can occur later when people feel heard.
