The art of dialogue¶
- dialogue¶
A written or spoken conversational exchange between two or more partners
Dialogue is “the embrace of different points of view — literally the art of thinking together” – (William Isaacs via spectrum.mit.edu)
“Problems between managers and employees, citizens and elected officials, and nation and nation often stem from an inability to conduct a successful dialogue.” – (William Isaacs via spectrum.mit.edu)
Dialogue requires a vocabulary, a common set of concepts and definitions. This is why polarization (the process of identifying and defining the opposing camps of a controversial question) is not a sign of division but a necessary step towards dialogue.
Dialogue is not always useful. “It is less helpful (or necessary) for solving routine, or familiar or well-understood problems.” (William Isaacs in Accessing Genuine Dialogue, The Watercooler, July/August 2012).
TODO:
Words and Phrases to Avoid in a Difficult Conversation (Harvard Business Review, James R. Detert, June 21, 2021) names six useful formulations to avoid: Don’t assume your viewpoint is obvious; Don’t exaggerate; Don’t tell others what they should do; Don’t blame others for your feelings; Don’t challenge someone’s character or integrity; Don’t say “It’s not personal”.