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.

More Big Think summaries

How to be happier in 5 steps with zero weird tricks | Laurie Santos

How to be happier in 5 steps with zero weird tricks | Laurie Santos

Big Think

Big Think

Laurie Santos, a psychology professor at Yale University, delves into the misconceptions about happiness and how to rewire our behaviors to increase our well-being.

12 traits emotionally intelligent people share (You can learn them) | Daniel Goleman for Big Think+

12 traits emotionally intelligent people share (You can learn them) | Daniel Goleman for Big Think+

Big Think

Big Think

Daniel Goleman discusses the significance of emotional intelligence (EQ) in personal and professional life, its components, and how it can be developed at any age.

Slavoj Žižek: Why There Are No Viable Political Alternatives to Unbridled Capitalism | Big Think

Slavoj Žižek: Why There Are No Viable Political Alternatives to Unbridled Capitalism | Big Think

Big Think

Big Think

The speaker discusses the failure of the left to provide a new political model amidst rising populism and the challenges of modern society.