Taking a Stance is Not Persuasion

We formulate clear positions, draw lines, and publicly declare which side we find right. This provides orientation and a sense of belonging. However, it often only reaches people who already think in similar ways.

Taking a stance is safe. You receive applause from your own group without risking being misunderstood or rejected. it offers a sense of clarity without the effort of slow, deliberate persuasion.

The more difficult conversation with people who are uncertain, skeptical, or have different backgrounds. Persuasion is slower than positioning and less rewarding than applause from one's own circle.

Ask a question before making an argument: "What exactly makes you skeptical about this topic?"