Listening is more powerful than talking in persuasion as it makes people feel understood and open to change. Competitive motivations in debates can deteriorate relationships and lead to the desire to win at all costs. Debates should be a competition between partial truths, with the goal of finding a balance. In debates, it's important to be curious about each other and see from another's point of view. Honest debates that focus on substance rather than hostility can lead to understanding the other person's beliefs. Tricks for maintaining debates as learning exercises include finding the disagreement under the disagreement, keeping the gem statement in the center, and standing in the opponent's standpoint. Respect is crucial in debates, as it affects the flow of emotions in a conversation. Despite disagreements, debates can be conducted without emotional animosity, and the passion and vigor in debates can convey meaningful emotions.
With polarization rising within our society and two wars encouraging division, people are feeling more afraid to engage with people who have differing perspectives. How can we solve that issue, build deeper connections, and get to know someone? New York Times columnist David Brooks says you help them feel seen and understood. John Donvan sits down with Brooks to discuss his book “How to Know a Person: The Art of Seeing Others Deeply and Being Deeply Seen”, how to foster connections in daily life, and offers a solution to a society in need of appreciating each other’s differences.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices