Let’s keep our political discussions respectful

By The Sower

In America’s politically divided landscape, a college campus can be a forum for discussions that foster respect despite political differences.

A Lutheran university founded on the wisdom of the Bible has an even greater calling to engage constructively in political conversations and to avoid treating others with malice.

Political disagreements are bound to arise, but respect is the vital component that turns bitter arguments into meaningful discussions.

Martin Luther’s explanation of the 8th Commandment in the Small Catechism states: “We should fear and love God so that we do not tell lies about our neighbor, betray him, slander him, or hurt his reputation, but defend him, speak well of him, and explain everything in the kindest way.” The 8th Commandment to “not bear false witness against your neighbor” warns against the sinful tendency to tear down an opponent for the sake of winning an argument.

Distorting an opponent’s position or sinking to the level of name-calling is an inferior and unbiblical approach to political discussions. King Solomon warns: “A fool takes no pleasure in understanding, but only in expressing his opinion.” (Proverbs 18:2 ESV)

For people who value understanding over argument, good discussions are possible. Researchers Curtis Puryear and Kurt Gray published a study this year where they coined the term “balanced pragmatism” to explain how a good discusser gains respect from his opponent and gives it in return.

A good political debater is both balanced and pragmatic, according to the study in the Journal of Experimental Psychology: General. A person is balanced when he views an issue from different perspectives and understands where his opponent and others are coming from. Being balanced does not mean giving up moral convictions or conceding that everyone is equally right, but willingly listening to what others have to say.

A person is pragmatic when he comes up with practical solutions that fit within the given context. Being pragmatic does not mean trying to appeal to every idea but determining a plausible and wise solution to an issue.

When a person uses balanced pragmatism in a political discussion, an opponent feels respected, shows respect back and wants to continue the conversation.

However, Puryear and Gray’s research shows that while balanced pragmatism is the most effective method for fostering good discussions, people do not intuitively use this method. People tend to overlook the power of solid, respectful political discussions because of the extra effort it takes to formulate. Practicing balanced pragmatism, especially when rooted in biblical respect for human life, is invaluably helpful but not easy.

Herein lies a challenge for everyone at Concordia.

When talking with someone you disagree with, especially in the trademark heat of politics, view him or her first as a beloved creation of God. That biblical truth must shape the trajectory of a conversation toward an honest discussion, not a malicious argument.

Then, listen and respond in a balanced and pragmatic way, holding true to your convictions while keeping an open mind.