How to Talk to Friends with Different Political Views

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“It can be helpful to reflect that, if you were born into a different family, a different region of the country, or with different demographic characteristics, your political views might be very different… that can help us understand that the people we disagree with aren’t necessarily irredeemable or acting in bad faith. Tricky conversations between people with different views can worsen political divides, or they can be the building blocks of social change.”

“It is helpful to approach these conversations with the goal of really listening and trying to understand the other person before speaking. This helps people feel respected and heard… But you don’t need to — and shouldn’t — forget your own views. Express them, just take the time to listen carefully before you do.”

— Robb Willer, professor of sociology at Stanford University & director of the school’s Polarization and Social Change Lab

“I think why is a word to use in these conversations. If you ask genuine why questions about your friend’s views and vote, you’ll understand them better.”

— Scott Meinke, professor of political science at Bucknell University

Source: Teen Vogue, “How To Talk to Friends With Different Political Views” by Sarah Levy