I'm Conservative, S/he's Liberal

By Author: Timothy Winters
Total Articles: 2
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Ah, politics- my favorite topic to see other people discuss. It's just so full of juicy issues, the only problem being that most of the time it creates some serious beef (that's hatred, for you non-hip people) among people with opposite points of view. Here we're going to try to gain a working knowledge of how to deal with differing political points of views among two close people (best friends, couples, etc).
It isn't easy, but you can do it
First thing to realize when in a heated political debate is that you are both wrong. Chances are you don't know all of the details of the topic at hand. There is much more behind gubernatorial scandals and foreign conflicts than you can imagine. Also, your reasons for supporting X domestic policy may be biased, as is your counterpart's.
Second thing is...you're both right. Yup- there is a reason why people believe the opposite of your beliefs. Its because their fundamental point of view is correct. Both parties have sincere intentions and behave accordingly. For example, pro-choice people believe in women's rights and privacy. Everyone agrees with that. Pro-lifers hope ...
... to rid the world of unrighteous deaths of [unborn] youths. This too is a positive most people can see. Where things go haywire is with the gray areas and implementation of social policies.

See, most people don't understand that the other person is also just trying to help and is also a person with sincere intentions and a good heart. This is why you need to communicate such to your partner if they don't realize this. Explain why you hold your views and what fundamental values they are based on. Communication isn't easy though. First, you should try to sincerely see where the other person is coming from. Then, when its your turn to convey your message, use a friendly tone and non-upsetting gestures and facial expressions. This will help not turn off your significant other. I know this is harder to do than' it is to say, so practice in front of a mirror (you should also try practicing a sincere argument for the point of view opposite your own).

Make sure not to upset the other person. They will start to insult, then you will, and all of our hard work would have gone to hell. This means no "I told you so" or "you see" whenever a huge story breaks in your favor (no WMD's, false reporting, a politician in trouble, etc). Make sure when discussing these topics that you concede a bit to your, oppon...i mean friend. This means use the "give a little, get a little" strategy. Discussing welfare? Before you chew your buddy about how it promotes laziness and does nothing to eliminate poorness, concede that it IS good for the rich to help out the poor and that everyone should have access to basic necessities regardless of income (housing, food, etc).

Can't we all just get along?
Unless you're governor of California is it really that big of a deal that your wife disagrees with you on some political issues? I hope not, because it shouldn't be. Enjoy yourselves. If politics is why you two can't enjoy each other's company, you should first look at yourself- you are your main problem. Break it up and practice some reflection upon yourself. When you're ready to practice what's here, give it another shot. Its not like you're fighting over religion.
About the Author Timothy Winters is a writer who specializes in interpersonal relations. He has written several articles concerning relationships, dating, friendship and other related topics for thecollegeguys.com