How to Have Impossible Conversations

Buchzusammenfassung

Peter Boghossian is an assistant professor of philosophy at Portland State University, Oregon. He is a speaker at the Center of Inquiry, and he lectures internationally with the Richard Dawkins Foundation for Reason and Science. He is also the author of A Manual for Creating Atheists.

To change someone’s perspective, it’s crucial to first instill doubt, as demonstrated by studies like the 2001 toilet mechanics experiment and the "unread library effect," where people overestimate their understanding by relying on others’ expertise. Encouraging self-reflection through curiosity, open-ended questions, and modeling ignorance can help individuals recognize gaps in their knowledge. Similarly, Rapoport’s Rules—restating viewpoints, identifying agreements, acknowledging insights, and only then expressing disagreement—foster respectful, collaborative dialogue. However, facts alone often fail to persuade when beliefs are rooted in moral or social influences, as seen in debates like Bill Nye’s with Ken Ham. Instead, techniques from hostage negotiation, such as active listening, mirroring, and building a "golden bridge" for dignified perspective shifts, can create a positive conversational atmosphere. By addressing smaller issues first and maintaining mutual respect, even contentious discussions can lead to meaningful exchanges.

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