To keep the peace in your family while talking about politics, keep the ad hominem attacks at bay
They used to say never discuss politics and religion, but with the upcoming elections, it’s an unavoidable hot topic. Unlike in the earlier times when giving your opinion in the dinner table could be deemed as being disrespectful, these days, we are encouraged to think for ourselves and to engage in respectful and thoughtful conversation.
Still, this topic can turn the most peaceful dinnertime conversation into a heated argument when family members disagree about differing political views. Political conversations can either start a lively debate, but can also devolve into a hurtful and damaging exchange of words. Here are some ways on how you can engage your loved ones with differing views and yet maintain peace over the dinner table.
Educate with care
In talking about politics with your family, remember that you’re talking with people who came from different motives and experiences; to maintain a healthy discussion, your words should be seasoned with useful information. Educate in such a way that the other party will walk away from the conversation with added knowledge that will be helpful with their decision in the upcoming election. Whether you’re talking to your parents or younger siblings, make sure to deliver your points in such a way anyone could understand.
Avoid going beyond the topic
When the conversation becomes intense, keep below-the-belt remarks at bay since the topic of politics should stem from desires of having a better government, country, and future, and not unresolved grudges with each other. What your brother did to you 10 years ago has nothing to do with the election. Converse within the topic.
Maintain respect
Since you’re talking with your family or loved ones, carefully think about what words you’re going to throw at them. We hope to have the best government officials, but in order to do that, our country should have a unifying goal of what Philippines should become. How will it be possible if with just having a political discussion within your family divides you already? If you feel like everyone’s starting to raise their voice with each other, be the first to walk away. At the end of the day, the president will change, but your family will stay with you.
