TED Talks Daily How to win an argument (at the US Supreme Court, or anywhere) | Neal Katyal
Sep 11, 2020
Neal Katyal, a seasoned Supreme Court litigator, reveals the art of winning arguments by emphasizing empathy and human connection rather than mere confidence. He shares insights from landmark cases, illustrating how personal stories and emotional grounding can transform persuasion. With anecdotes about handling high-stakes situations, Katyal underlines the need for composure and trust in both legal and personal conversations. Ultimately, he teaches that resilience is key in the face of defeat, focusing on how to rise again after setbacks.
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Guantanamo Case
- Neal Katyal's first Supreme Court case involved defending Osama bin Laden's driver at Guantanamo.
- Despite facing a hostile political climate and an experienced opponent, Katyal secured a victory.
Empathy over Confidence
- Prioritize empathy and understanding your audience's perspective to win arguments.
- Connect with people on a human level instead of relying solely on confidence.
Acting Coach
- Katyal hired an acting coach who emphasized personal connection.
- The coach had him practice his arguments while holding hands to build empathy and resonance.