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