Until we teach teens whole brain thinking, and support college students to engage options on other sides of their opinions – expect gridlocked leaders who sulk when they lose.
Compelling Counterpoints or Gridlock
The next time controversy arises, consider how even one opposing view can illuminate facts on both sides of the issue. Take war and peace!
Yesterday a retired teacher told me how he loved teaching history – especially civil war and Gettysburg Battles. In fact Jake recently reenacted several triumphs of war.
My immediate thought was:
Why do we teach war daily, but omit possibilities from robust peace plans?
To ask that question though, would have likely created gridlock or a fight with a brilliant leader I admire in many ways.
So I asked instead:
What could your reenactment offer those interested in leading robust peace plans?
My question ignited Jake in ways that surprised me! He walked away promising me he’d be exploring that question further before the next real life history reenactment.
What question might you ask today that starts a new conversation to explore possibilities on the other side of popular thought?
Outlines enable points and counterpoints to weave wonder together in ways that build curiosity for both sides of controversial topics. It’s a skill worth developing through practice.
How would you nudge a college student to support and learn from an opposing view they may have missed in heated exchanges?
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