Civil discourse

Listening is "the ability to accurately receive and interpret messages in the communication process."

Engaging in civil discourse means having thoughtful and respectful conversations - even when there are fundamental or other disagreements. It involves employing listening skills such as active listening, speaking/writing empathetically and respectfully, and focusing on the issue at hand rather than personal attacks. Civil discourse helps build mutual understanding and also promotes productive dialogue.

Graham's hierarchy of disagreement

See also: Graham's hierarchy of disagreement

Graham's hierarchy of disagreement is a conceptual framework proposed by the computer scientist Paul Graham in his 2008 essay entitled How to Disagree.

The Graham's hierarchy of disagreement conceptual pyramid suggests ways to improve one’s arguments, and have more logical, substantive and constructive disagreements.

Graham's hierarchy of disagreement

See also

• Interpersonal skills
• Conflict resolution

External links

Christian article on civil discourse:

• 5 Guidelines for Civil Discourse