Are you looking for a way to engage with others with contrary opinions in a meaningful way? Then you should try civil discourse, a productive method of interacting with opinions that are contrary to yours but still retaining your cool.

You might have encountered civil discourse more times than you can remember. But have you ever wondered what exactly it means or what role it plays? Now is the time for you to know what civil discourse means, how important it is, and how to use it to expand your expertise and understanding in dialogue with others.

What is Civil Discourse?

To understand what the phrase “civil discourse” means, you need to understand the two words that form the phrase independently.

The word “Civil” itself has various meanings. It could mean secular, non-religious, lay, or anything relating to what concerns everyday citizens. Civil in some contexts could mean well-bred, well-mannered, courteous, or polite. However, in this context, it means a broader range of civility upon which the foundation of democracy operates and behaviors and characters which leads to better citizenship.

Discourse, on the other hand, means to debate, communicate or hold a conversation in which thoughts are communicated using formal discussions or words in writing or speech.

Combining the two, we have Civil discourse. This productive dialogue allows people to encounter different opinions and express themselves respectfully. It is when different parties exchange their views mutually, intending to promote a better level of understanding between themselves.

According to Milan Kordestani, true civil discourse will happen when the parties involved do not just listen because they are polite and wish to avoid any form of disagreement. But because they plan to under the other party.

Civil discourse will be achieved when;

• Opinions and thoughts are exchanged and expressed respectfully.
• The parties involved are not only interested in listening but acquiring a greater understanding of the subject.
• When the discussion, dialogue, or debate is courteous, even though it might not end with total agreement or submission of opposing parties.

Why Civil Discourse?

Aside from being social beings, humans evolved because they engaged in courteous and civil communications, which laid the foundation for developing various cultures and societies. Through these discussions, ideas are exchanged, relationships are strengthened, and people stand to gain insights into different points of view and beliefs.

Civil discourse helps to enhance an individual’s level of understanding about a particular topic and helps to boost their growth. You should engage in civil discourse to increase your knowledge from others’ experiences. It will broaden your perspectives and increase your potential for making calculated and informed decisions.

Some benefits of civil discourse are:

• Build your personal growth
• Creating opportunities
• Exchanging ideas about sensitive matters without violence
• Gain more knowledge about pressing matters
• Gives you a receptive mind that is open to new or strange ideas
• Preventing unnecessary conflicts
• Share gainful insights
• Strengthen your relationships with people
• Strengthens peaceful coexistence

How to Partake in Effective Civil Discourse

If you plan to enjoy the benefits mentioned earlier of civil discourse, here are some things you need to do.

Be mindful of others

You must learn to see the world around you through filters for different identities and experiences. This means that as much as you plan to be courteous in the discussion, you should know that no matter how civil you are, some topics might be sensitive to some people. So you have to respect that and be thoughtful and considerate, especially if their opinions differ or antagonize yours.

Concentrate on the issue

Do not focus on the person. Concentrate on the issue. When partaking in a discussion, especially when we are particular, there is always this tendency to take things personally. To partake in civil discourse, you don’t have to. Resist the urge to attack the person and address the issue at hand. As much as possible, try to have a very objective discussion.

Always set boundaries

Let the parties involved know if you are in a discussion that makes you stressed or anxious—set boundaries. Let them know what topics you want to discuss and which you’d instead steer clear of. While doing that, you should also learn to respect the boundaries of others while engaging in civil discourse. Setting boundaries might also limit the amount of information you digest daily.

Respect people’s opinion

Value people’s opinions no matter how different they are from yours. This is very vital in building and making a relationship stronger.

Summary

Partaking in civil discourse is very important as it helps transform a person’s way of life at any stage. It helps improve interpersonal engagements and interactions and can be used at work or in your business. These are benefits you will want to be part of your everyday life.

Source: Plato Data Intelligence: Platodata.ai