How to discuss politics politely
  • 1. What is the MOST important foundation for a polite political discussion?
A) Sharing only your opinion
B) Avoiding all disagreement
C) Winning the argument
D) Mutual respect
  • 2. Which of these phrases is MOST likely to start a polite conversation?
A) "You're being naive if you think..."
B) "I'm interested in hearing your perspective."
C) "Everyone knows the truth is..."
D) "That's completely wrong!"
  • 3. What does 'active listening' involve?
A) Ignoring parts you disagree with
B) Interrupting to correct inaccuracies
C) Paying attention and trying to understand the speaker's viewpoint
D) Thinking about your response while the speaker is talking
  • 4. How should you respond to a statement you strongly disagree with?
A) Attack the person making the statement.
B) Immediately dismiss it as foolish.
C) Acknowledge the statement and ask clarifying questions.
D) Loudly proclaim your opposing view.
  • 5. What should you do if you feel your emotions escalating during a political discussion?
A) Become sarcastic and insulting.
B) Speak louder to make your point clearer.
C) Argue harder to prove your point.
D) Take a break or suggest changing the subject.
  • 6. When discussing politics, what is a 'straw man' argument?
A) Agreeing with someone's point to avoid conflict.
B) Presenting a new and innovative idea.
C) Supporting your argument with facts and evidence.
D) Misrepresenting someone's argument to make it easier to attack.
  • 7. Which of these is a good way to frame your disagreement?
A) "I see it differently because..."
B) "You're obviously wrong about..."
C) "You clearly don't understand..."
D) "That's the stupidest thing I've ever heard."
  • 8. What is the purpose of asking open-ended questions?
A) To trap the other person in a contradiction.
B) To quickly dismiss their opinion.
C) To dominate the conversation.
D) To encourage the other person to elaborate on their views.
  • 9. Why is it important to avoid personal attacks during political discussions?
A) Personal attacks show you are passionate.
B) Personal attacks shut down dialogue and create hostility.
C) Personal attacks strengthen your argument.
D) Personal attacks are a sign of intelligence.
  • 10. When is it appropriate to end a political discussion?
A) When the other person stops talking.
B) When you have convinced the other person you are right.
C) When either party becomes too emotional or disrespectful.
D) When you feel like you are losing the argument.
  • 11. What does 'agreeing to disagree' mean?
A) Pretending to agree even though you don't.
B) Secretly believing you are still right.
C) Continuing to argue until one person gives in.
D) Acknowledging that you have different viewpoints and ending the discussion amicably.
  • 12. Why is it important to understand the other person's background and experiences?
A) It gives you information to use against them later.
B) It can help you understand why they hold certain beliefs.
C) It doesn't matter.
D) It allows you to find weaknesses in their arguments.
  • 13. Which of the following is NOT a characteristic of a respectful political discussion?
A) Acknowledging the validity of differing opinions.
B) Listening attentively to understand different perspectives.
C) Using respectful language and tone.
D) Interrupting frequently to make your points.
  • 14. What role does empathy play in political discussions?
A) It helps you understand the emotional basis of someone's views.
B) It weakens your own convictions.
C) It's not relevant in political discussions.
D) It makes you appear weak and indecisive.
  • 15. Which of these is an example of a respectful question?
A) "Could you tell me more about why you feel that way?"
B) "How can you possibly believe that?"
C) "Don't you know that's wrong?"
D) "Are you seriously saying that?"
  • 16. What should you do if you realize you are wrong during a political discussion?
A) Change the subject quickly.
B) Admit you were mistaken and adjust your viewpoint.
C) Double down on your original statement.
D) Blame someone else for your mistake.
  • 17. What is the benefit of finding common ground during a political discussion?
A) It proves you are right and the other person is wrong.
B) It can help build a connection and foster understanding.
C) It means you have to compromise your own beliefs.
D) There is no benefit.
  • 18. Which of these is an example of using respectful language?
A) Using insults to discredit their arguments.
B) Stating your opinion without attacking the other person's character.
C) Using sarcasm to highlight the flaws in their logic.
D) Dominating the conversation to prevent them from speaking.
  • 19. What does it mean to be 'open-minded' during a political discussion?
A) Giving up your own beliefs entirely.
B) Willing to consider different perspectives and potentially change your own views.
C) Pretending to agree while secretly disagreeing.
D) Not having any strong opinions in the first place.
  • 20. Why is it important to stay informed about the issues being discussed?
A) It makes you appear arrogant and condescending.
B) It's not important; opinions are all that matter.
C) It allows you to prove the other person is ignorant.
D) It allows you to have a more nuanced and informed conversation.
  • 21. What is the difference between a debate and a discussion?
A) A debate aims to win, a discussion aims to understand.
B) They are the same thing.
C) A discussion is more aggressive than a debate.
D) A debate involves listening, a discussion does not.
  • 22. How can humor be used in a political discussion?
A) To avoid serious topics altogether.
B) Humor should never be used in political discussions.
C) To mock the other person's beliefs.
D) To diffuse tension and create a more relaxed atmosphere, but be careful not to offend.
  • 23. What is a 'confirmation bias'?
A) A well-reasoned argument based on facts.
B) The act of deliberately distorting information.
C) The ability to see both sides of an argument equally.
D) The tendency to seek out and interpret information that confirms your existing beliefs.
  • 24. Which is the best approach when someone presents misinformation?
A) Agree with them to avoid conflict.
B) Provide accurate information respectfully, citing credible sources.
C) Ignore the misinformation and continue with your argument.
D) Accuse them of spreading lies.
  • 25. What is the key to discussing sensitive topics politely?
A) Approaching the conversation with sensitivity and respect for different viewpoints.
B) Avoiding all sensitive topics entirely.
C) Using emotionally charged language to emphasize your points.
D) Dominating the conversation to control the narrative.
  • 26. What does 'tone policing' refer to?
A) Maintaining a consistent tone throughout a discussion.
B) Complimenting someone on their respectful tone.
C) Criticizing someone's tone of voice instead of addressing the content of their argument.
D) Analyzing the underlying meaning of someone's words.
  • 27. Which of these is a good way to acknowledge someone's feelings?
A) "You shouldn't feel that way."
B) "I understand why you might feel that way."
C) "Your feelings are irrelevant."
D) "You're being too emotional."
  • 28. What is the importance of considering the timing and context of a political discussion?
A) The more public the discussion, the better.
B) Certain times and places are not suitable for potentially contentious conversations.
C) Timing and context are irrelevant; political discussions can happen anywhere.
D) The later the discussion, the more effective it will be.
  • 29. How should you handle it if someone misinterprets your words?
A) Refuse to engage with them further.
B) Clarify your meaning and rephrase your statement.
C) Accuse them of intentionally misunderstanding you.
D) Insist that your original statement was perfectly clear.
  • 30. Ultimately, what is the goal of polite political discourse?
A) To avoid any conflict or disagreement whatsoever.
B) To foster understanding and potentially find common ground, even if you disagree.
C) To win the argument and prove the other person wrong.
D) To assert your dominance and demonstrate your superior knowledge.
Created with That Quiz — a math test site for students of all grade levels.