Growing up, I was taught that there are controversial topics I should avoid if I wanted to keep all my family relationships as they were. If politics were brought up, my mom would quickly try to change the subject, or just zone out altogether if we chose to keep talking about it.
As a scholar, I find it odd that people are afraid to talk about something for fear of disagreement. In school we learned how to read, write, think, and debate about issues related to politics, religion, gender, and race. Yet the minute we step out into the “real world”, we need to avoid these issues at all costs?
If we don’t start creating spaces for organic conversation, we are going to lose our ability to talk to one another. You can already see this happening with “cancel culture”. By avoiding talking about controversial things, we now feel more divided than ever with each other.
Some of the best chats happen around hot button issues, which makes a lot of sense. If you think about it, the issue isn’t controversial because it is boring, but because it is IMPORTANT! Discussions surrounding these topics can be safe and exciting, but only if we start off by seeking to understand. Contrary to popular belief, there doesn’t need to be a right or wrong side to a conversation. You also don’t have to change your mind at the end.
Here on the blog, you will see my takes on spicy current events. If you disagree with me, that is great! I want to encourage you to leave me your opinion in the comments section. I will never miss an opportunity to learn more about things I don’t know about.
now i want to hear from you:
How do you see yourself incorporating controversial topics in your circle?
