Can people with differing views meet solely to try to convince each other of their own positions? No, provided that they meet not for a debate, but for a dialogue. This is precisely the foundation of the New Community Foundation’s approach.
What is dialogue?
Dialogue is a type of conversation in which the goal is not to be right — but to understand one another. Its participants listen to one another, express their opinions, respect differences, and seek common ground.
During dialogues, people with differing views, values, or perspectives come together to better understand one another. Instead of arguing and fighting with one another, they can calmly exchange thoughts on topics that spark debate and controversy. Dialogues create a space to listen to others’ views, reflect on one’s own beliefs, and examine one’s needs and values.
During these dialogues, no one tries to convince anyone — most participants do not change their minds during the meeting. The topics of discussion are public affairs, often hot-button political issues, but the conversation itself is not about politics. The participants do not decide: left or right, good or bad. Instead, they learn to navigate their differences of opinion. They explore where they agree, where they can find common ground — and where there are fundamental differences that simply must be respected.
Thanks to the atmosphere of trust fostered by the dialogue facilitators, participants can share their perspectives, experiences, and emotions related to a given topic — without engaging in intellectual debate or emotional confrontation.
How does it work?
At the beginning, participants often feel uncertainty, fear of strangers, and apprehension about the conflict escalating. They also frequently try to categorize their conversation partners into groups or camps: Who is who? Who do they vote for? Are they one of “us” or “them”?
They also instinctively fall back on patterns typical of a debate: impatient listening, searching for counterarguments, and a readiness to attack and defend. However, in dialogue, such behaviors prove ineffective and eventually subside, bringing a sense of calm. As hostility and defensiveness fade, curiosity and kindness emerge. Participants may “test” the new situation repeatedly before they come to trust it. And once they do trust it, sympathy, gratitude, and a sense of connection emerge.
New innovations in Trans4Demo
Based on this method, the New Community Foundation will organize six dialogues in various locations across Poland as part of the Trans4Demo project. The meetings will address topics related to renewable energy sources that are controversial within local communities.