Harvard negotiator explains how to argue | Dan Shapiro

Big Think

Big Think

4 min, 36 sec

An in-depth exploration of how to effectively manage and resolve emotionally-charged conflicts.

Summary

  • The speaker discusses the discomfort around conflict and the usefulness of conflict when dealt with properly.
  • He introduces his book on resolving emotionally-charged conflicts and explains the 'tribal trap' in political discussions.
  • Three barriers to effective arguments are identified: identity, appreciation, and affiliation.
  • Techniques for understanding one's own identity, appreciating the other's perspective, and finding common ground are provided.

Chapter 1

Introduction to Conflict and Its Uses

0:00 - 10 sec

Introduction to the concept of conflict and its potential benefits when managed correctly.

  • The speaker expresses personal discomfort with conflict.
  • He raises the question of how to deal with conflict effectively.

Chapter 2

Book Introduction and the Reality of Conflict

0:16 - 31 sec

The author introduces his book and discusses the inevitability and frustration of conflict in human experience.

  • The author introduces his book 'Negotiating the Nonnegotiable'.
  • He acknowledges that everyone experiences emotionally-charged conflicts, especially regarding politics.

Chapter 3

The Tribal Trap in Political Discourse

0:50 - 23 sec

Exploration of the 'tribal trap' in political arguments and the problem with the 'how' of arguing.

  • Describes the tribal trap as a refusal to acknowledge the opposing side's credibility.
  • The problem lies not in the subject of arguments but in the manner of arguing.

Chapter 4

Three Barriers to Effective Arguments

1:17 - 14 sec

Identification of three main barriers to effective communication in arguments.

  • The three barriers are identity, appreciation, and affiliation.
  • Each barrier is introduced with the intent of providing solutions to overcome them.

Chapter 5

Understanding Identity in Conflict

1:32 - 52 sec

A deep dive into how identity plays a crucial role in emotional responses to conflict.

  • Identity is tied to core values and beliefs that feel threatened during conflict.
  • Understanding one's own identity allows for a balanced stance even when challenged.

Chapter 6

The Power of Appreciation

2:29 - 39 sec

The importance of appreciation in conflict resolution and the difficulty in practicing it.

  • Both sides in a conflict seek appreciation but are reluctant to offer it.
  • Active listening and expressing understanding of the other's view are key to appreciation.

Chapter 7

Creating Emotional Connection and Finding Common Ground

3:14 - 43 sec

Strategies for building an emotional connection and finding common ground with the opposing side.

  • Affiliation addresses the emotional connection between parties in a conflict.
  • Transforming adversaries into partners by focusing on shared problems is essential.

Chapter 8

Transforming Relationships and the World

3:59 - 21 sec

The potential global impact of applying effective conflict resolution strategies.

  • Implementing the strategies discussed can transform personal relationships and politics.
  • The speaker envisions a positive revolution through understanding, appreciation, and affiliation.

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