I can guarantee that every single person reading this has had an argument. It could’ve been as minor as which sports team is better, or something more important like worldview. No matter the subject, chances are neither party involved learned much of anything. In a perfect world both of you would carefully consider each other's opinions and restructure your own view with the knowledge you’ve gained, but we don’t live in a perfect world. The world we live in is often aggressive, inconsiderate and not a good environment for learning. So it’s up to you to shape your points and tailor your delivery to each person you encounter, but how? Well let’s start with the simplest, yet seemingly most seldom done task before you argue. Fully understand and consider the views of others before attempting to critique it. The goal of arguing is not to win, but to learn. Failing to fully consider someone else's opinion will result in deconstructive bickering, and neither of you will learn anything. To form an accurate and impactful argument you must first fully understand the other person's view, once you’ve done that you may even consider changing your own. Open with curiosity, not aggression. Proving someone wrong isn’t enough to change their opinion, you have to ‘soften the blow’ slightly to avoid things becoming heated. When people get angry, they act irrationally and don’t take well to alternative ideas, avoiding this is the most important thing to do during an argument. Ask them to explain their ideas, establish a sense of comfort and open mindedness. Once they see you’re not trying to attack them, they’re going to be far more open to your ideas and views. Take time to think before arguing Many small arguments are the result of poor communication or a simple misunderstanding. Before you jump in and try to convince someone they’re wrong, make sure you aren’t just caught in the heat of the moment. Ask yourself if there's an alternative way to see this, or if this is something truly important. Remember to calm down, never argue while you're angry. It’s a habit most of us fall into because of what i mentioned above, when we are angry we don’t like to consider we are in the wrong. Starting an argument while either party is mad is pointless, on top of neither person learning anything, you’ll probably come out more upset than you were before. Like any other kind of socializing, this takes practice. You’re not about to go convince the entire class about pickle ice cream just because you’ve read this. Everyone is different, adapting your arguments to everyone you meet is a skill that takes years to develop, and can never truly be mastered. The best thing you can do for yourself and others is to stay open minded, and never stop trying to learn about the world and the people around you.
Michael B
8 Comments
Luis
11/18/2022 01:46:40 pm
I liked a lot the topic of your blog and they way you adressed it, I realized that we are far from knowing how to productively argue and your blog helps to get closer to the final goal of arguing as logically as possible.
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Anooj
11/18/2022 01:47:02 pm
I totally agree. I honestly wish more people would stop arguing over every little thing and just accept that their opinions are different than other peoples’.
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Clare
11/18/2022 01:49:40 pm
I really liked how you continued to highlight the importance of never arguing when you are angry. Most people act out of anger, rage, frustration, and only see their personal point of view. Understanding the other persons' point of view is incredibly important and I really enjoyed how you touched base on that.
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Lucas
11/18/2022 01:50:36 pm
If only everyone argued like this. I feel like there would be so much more peace in the world if everyone was diplomatic with their arguments and opinions. One thing about being calm while arguing with someone, is that it will usually give you the upper hand. They would become more annoyed that you aren't upset, and that can help you win the argument. Even if that isn't the point of arguing, winning still feels good. Anyway, really well structured blog!
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paula
11/18/2022 01:51:55 pm
It is a really well written blog. I can definitely see myself in. some of the situations and making the wrong decision in some moments. I think it really helped me reflect on myself . In future conversations I will be able to stay calm. Thank you
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Farryn
11/18/2022 01:59:18 pm
I like how you pointed out not getting angry, and trying to understand the others view point. Because, there have definitely been times where I argue with someone and take little to no consideration to their thoughts, feelings, or situation.
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Lina
11/18/2022 02:00:02 pm
I really liked this blog. I will try to remember your tips when I'm arguing with my sister the next time and don't want the situation to escalate.
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Aimée
11/18/2022 02:05:04 pm
I really like this blog. I think your point of view is really mature and I am pretty sure I'll read thru this probably one more time. I am really sure if everyone would so mature, our world would be way more perfect and probably there were also less wars and conflicts.
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