There is a new threat of massive disinformation and extremization to our societies. It is our responsibility to deal with it. We need to learn new skills, to be able to communicate with our misled neighbors in a productive way. Disinformation can affect our friends and our families, and we need to have the right answers. Keep in mind that they are victims of crafty manipulation tactics.
- Never argue. Don't try to convince them with reason, logic, or facts. It just doesn't work, wears everybody out, and can put a strain on your relationship.
- Don't appear smug, lecturing, or from a high horse. This makes them understandably more defensive and weakens your point.
- Be patient and understanding. Getting them out of this is a process. If you rush, you will over-push and eventually be seen as a threat.
- Don't make every encounter about those topics in question. Having less controversial conversations about different things will help to slowly get back to a fruitful communication.