> [!tldr] The similar cross-section of multiple independently developed [[Empirical]]ly developed methods Arguably the pinnacle chapter of [[How Minds Change]]: 1. **Ask yourself why** - why do you want the conversation? what are you hoping to get out of it? 1. In the case of Street [[Epistemology]], they wanted to help people understand their own beliefs 2. **Establish rapport** - you cannot appear threatening or come across as an "other" 1. If you blow this, game over. At no point can you not be actively hearing and helping. 2. No real rule on this, but the first ~4 min might be a good "target" to "aim" for 3. **Ask them for their belief** - best stated by them 1. This is the basis of the conversation – their articulation of their own beliefs 2. Likely a good idea to ask them *how confident they are* in their beliefs or attitudes 4. **Ask them why they believe as they do** - not merely as a tactic, you need to care. 1. You have to listen and really try to understand 2. [[What have you experienced in your life that I haven't that causes you to believe something different from me?]] 3. "Why not lower?" or "Why not higher?" 4. FIND COMMON VALUES - YOU **DO** HAVE SOME 5. [[5 Whys]], basically. Why do they think the way they do. What would have to be true for the world to be different? 5. **Repeat their reasons back to them** - in your own words, but using *their* terms. 1. This sounds like a balance. You need to be sure you're not talking across purposes by not relying on anything that may be misconstrued. 6. **Repeat** - as necessary 1. Ask them why. Let them talk. Listen. Recap in your own words until they are satisfied. 7. **Wrap up** - thank them for their time. Suggest you can continue the conversation later. This is a simplified summary of the overlaps in the techniques of "smart politics", "deep canvasing", and "street epistemology". It's not an exhaustive take on all of their approaches. It's not the only way, either. You may choose to tell [[Best Story Wins|stories]] related to topic at hand that have happened to you or others they could [[Empathy vs Sympathy|empathize]] with. > [!important] Important notes! > - **People have to change their own minds** > - [[A compassionate listener is far more persuasive than any fact.]] **** # More ## Source - [[How Minds Change]]