Intelligence Squared Kate Murphy and Ros Urwin on the Importance of Listening
Mar 17, 2020
In this engaging chat, Kate Murphy, a New York Times contributor and bestselling author of "You're Not Listening," joins Ros Urwin from the Sunday Times to explore the crucial yet overlooked art of listening. They discuss how political polarization hinders empathy, the surprisingly beneficial role of gossip in society, and the neuroscience behind our need for connection. Murphy emphasizes the significance of listening skills in building relationships and advocates for a cultural shift towards genuine dialogue, curiosity, and understanding.
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Reasons for Poor Listening
- We are listening less to each other and more to machines, a trend exacerbated by smartphones.
- Cultural and political divides further hinder listening, as does the noisy environment we've created.
Become Curious
- Cultivate curiosity by asking the right questions to uncover interesting stories in others.
- Turn conversations into detective work, seeking to understand each person's unique narrative.
Embrace Silence
- Resist the urge to fill silences immediately; allow pauses for reflection and genuine responses.
- Indicate active listening by pausing to think, and don't be afraid to admit when you need time to process.
