Politics is a topic we are taught not to discuss amongst family or friends. Of late, and particularly this election year, politics is a hot issue. While it’s truly intriguing to hear and share views, it can potentially cause people to turn on one another. Thus, there are some unwritten rules that can help folks stay above the fray. Here are helpful tips when discussing politics amongst family and friends, and how to handle coworkers who bring up politics at work. Decide if some or all might work for you.
“A man only learns in two ways, one by reading, and the other by association with smarter people.” – Will Rogers
- Be successful in conversation. It’s enjoyable to discuss politics among wise and educated people. It is an opportunity to learn facts we may not know and hear interesting viewpoints. We may also seize the opportunity to enlighten others with our knowledge and perspectives. In doing so, it is necessary that all parties maintain respect for one another to avoid hard feelings. The key to successful conversation is to stick to the facts, be polite and to the point, and avoid getting emotional. Understand that people are free to disagree on topics. Do your best not to take differing views personally. If you see someone else is getting emotional because you are not on the same page, acknowledge them with, “I differ in opinion, but I hear what you are saying.” Then politely turn the conversation to sports or a lighthearted movie or book you just saw or read to avoid unpleasantries. Understand that it is unlikely for people to change their viewpoints. At the end of the day, it’s okay to agree to disagree. Do your best to keep the peace with friends and family.
“People’s minds are changed through observation and not through argument.”
– Will Rogers
- Listen at least as much as you speak, if not more. Listening to others is an ultimate sign of respect. It means you care about what the other person is saying. It also shows that you are generally attempting to understand them. Listening demonstrates that you are open-minded to what others have to say.It does not mean you have to change your stance or agree with them. It’s okay to follow what’s right in your own heart and mind. Note that when you listen to others and speak without abusing the opportunity, others are more likely to listen to you. People who talk without listening turn others off.So, listen well and reserve your words of wisdom for the appropriate time. Then, respectfully contribute to the conversation to guide others to a better understanding.Keep your words to the point and avoid flying off on tangents. Do not expect to change other minds with your words. Simply plant a seed of thought to see what might grow. When discussing politics with family and friends, it’s okay to use reaffirming phrases, such as “I appreciate your point of view” or “I think we can agree on that specific point.”Never call a family member or friend out for being wrong as that is hurtful.
“Better to remain silent and be thought a fool than to speak out and remove all doubt.”
– Abraham Lincoln
- Know when to avoid discussing politics. In most nonjudgemental and likeminded families, politics is generally a safe topic. However, in a dynamic family where half the group enthusiastically leans left, and the other half enthusiastically leans right, discussing politics is tricky. The same holds true of friends with opposing points of view. Generally, it’s best to avoid discussing politics with testy people, family and friends who are drinking alcohol, and people you outright know radically oppose your point of view. Know that you will likely not change their minds, nor can you carry on intellectual conversations with people under the influence. You’d be wise to steer clear of politics at work (unless your work is related to politics) because disagreements can lead to anger and resentment which can ultimately result in trouble in the workplace. If someone brings up politics at work, it’s okay to smile at them and say, “Let’s stick to work topics.”
Are discussions effective?
Under ideal conditions, discussing politics is entertaining and enlightening. However, to do so positively, productively, and effectively, all parties must be broad minded and open to hearing other opinions. Experts in politics frequently state that the point of political discussions is indeed to sway beliefs. It’s likely that articulate and educated professionals are gifted at achieving this noble goal. In comparison, swaying beliefs is rarely the case when it comes to political discussions with family and friends of differing mindsets. Thus, a greater purpose must remain related to the exchange of ideas, knowledge, and wisdom.
We hope you enjoyed this opinion piece. We’d love to hear your take on talking politics with family, friends, or coworkers.