Politics is one of the topics of conversation between family and work friends. For some people, talking about politics can get heated and lead to arguments. Differences in political principles can even cause family relationships to fall apart. Why do many conversations about politics end in arguments? Check out the following review

Why Talking About Politics Can Lead To Arguments

Among the various topics of conversation between family and work friends, political talk is one of the most polarizing topics. The topic of politics can turn small talk into a feud, even to the point of breaking the good relationship that has been established.

Political debates are often characterized by defensiveness and arguments that can lead to verbal or physical violence. You may wonder why politics can turn a previously harmonious relationship into a fight. But this can be explained from a psychological perspective.

Some of the reasons why political talk can lead to arguments include:

Political views are perceived as identity

Politics is perceived as a personal belief, moral value, or ideal that you support. We tend to see political ideologies as part of our identity. When those political views are challenged, the areas of the brain that deal with personal identity, emotions, and defense response become active and perceive the challenge to politics as a threat to personal identity. This is how a person can feel that their identity is under attack.

However, the problem that often occurs in society is that political debates often focus only on the figures who represent them, not on upholding the political ideology. Political ideas can be presented by anyone, whether it is a figure you support or not. As a result, when someone does not like a political figure, he will tend to dislike all the ideas he puts.

Partisanship makes you feel like you have to defend a particular camp

Political support and partisanship have unwittingly created polarization, where you seem to have to “choose” to be in camp A or camp B, and there is no place for those of you who don't choose either. While doing so, it is easier for people not to empathize and understand the perspectives of others who are not part of their group. Likewise, when there is a debate or attack on a supported figure, his supporters will feel the need to defend him until the end.

Different political views within a group are considered unnatural

Many people think that a group, family, or work unit should have the same political views to create harmony. Nowadays, everyone can form their own opinions after receiving information from social media and different news.

When there is a difference, people in the group may try to have the same political views so that the situation feels more cohesive. In fact, freedom of opinion or politics should not affect the integrity of family relationships or professionalism at work.

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Safe Tips for Talking about Politics

Although political topics can lead to arguments, you can still talk about them without the need to end up in a fight. Some tips that you can apply when talking about politics such as:

Talk with an open mind

When discussing politics, it is important to be open-minded and realize that the person you are talking to also has reasons for their beliefs. Also, listening to other people's opinions may bring up perspectives that you have never considered before. Try to be a non-judgmental listener with an inquisitive mindset and not impose your will.

Slip in some humor

To break the ice, you can slip humor into the conversation. But be careful in choosing jokes so as not to offend others. Avoid showing provocative gestures in the form of attitudes or movements.

Stay calm

If the discussion starts to get heated, try to stay calm and not get provoked. Realize that this is just normal political talk and doesn't need to have a direct impact on your life. Politely leave the conversation if you feel the discussion is getting too wide.

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