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Essays, Opinion, & Commentary |
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Something to Think About
by Gordon Francis Corbett
When I entered college almost forty years ago, and began discussing political issues, I was terrible. Compared to me, the Chicago Cubs were world champions. I hardly ever won an argument. Nevertheless, as I learned more about facts, philosophy, and debate, my percentage improved. Something bothered me. Whenever I did win, I expected my opponent's opinion to change, but that hardly ever happened. About twenty years later, an auto-salesman friend unwittingly gave me a clue. "When we get back from the test drive, I let my customer ask questions. Most are objections to buying. Each objection conceals another that lies beneath; and, when I have answered all of his questions, he is usually ready to buy. It is really like peeling an onion." In importance, one's political philosophy far surpasses a new automobile. So, when a friend and I discuss some controversial idea, I pay attention to his words; but I also listen for undertones that might indicate why he disagrees. Then, I ask him a question. What he says, and how he says it, will tell me a lot. Some people know a great deal and like to use it. Others may know little, but like discussing current events anyway. Still more back a political party willy-nilly, and do not care to debate its positions. A few, possibly fearing economic consequences, prefer not to comment. If my friend wants to talk, I let him ask me questions. Mindful of what my salesman friend told me, I answer them; but if his opinion does not change, I do not despair. People do not change their minds overnight. Effective persuasion requires gentleness, courtesy, and above all, patience. So, the next time you and a friend are talking, and you want to change his mind, remember the onion. Please, peel it gently.
Enrich your life with a book about politics and current events... Enrich your political & social life with a politics or news magazine... |
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Something to Think About Index |
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