If you are one of my Facebook friends you have undoubtedly noticed I post almost daily; many of my posts are news related, politics specifically. (
Click to add on Facebook). With 'Facebook politics' gaining momentum, I've decided to write this post as a pseudo 'disclaimer' on how I discuss my political views. This disclaimer applies mostly to those I disagree with, but I think is good practice for everybody.
- Understand that all of your friends will not agree with your political views. If you can't accept this fact, then you shouldn't be discussing politics in the first place.
- Be prepared to have friends anger you with their views. There will be moments when another's point of view will have you so angry they become your 'enemy'. This is normal. The trick is to know that when the discussion/debate is over with, your relationship before the political discussion ensued is not compromised.
- Don't get personal. This one is almost a given. When discussing politics with anybody it is proper etiquette to not get personal. There is a fine-line to be walked on this issue, however. If you should happen to tell a personal story in relation to the subject at hand, you must be willing to take the criticism concerning the information you just divulged the world. It is possible to criticize without getting personal.
- Use facts. To come across as credible you must be able to back your arguments up with verifiable facts. Do not use vague statements; do not use personal opinions as the basis for your argument. Personal opinions are a vital in political discussions (if it weren't personal, you wouldn't feel passionate, hence the conversation would never have started). If you know for a fact that your information is credible/verifiable, then by all means use it. I would suggest providing links to the information as well. Remember: Education is key. Knowledge is power. (Don't you just love cliche's?)
- Agree to disagree. When people discuss politics the other person rarely ever will succumb to the disagreeing person. You should know this going in to the discussion. Know when you are at the end and are ready to let it go.
- Answer questions. Don't deviate.
- If you consistently post politically related items on Facebook, be prepared to have those who disagree with your views follow your posts closely. They will want to 'attack' your arguments. Welcome it. Their persistence will keep you on your toes. I find that posting as though I'm speaking to that specific person helps get my thoughts flowing. Go ahead, use my techniques; royalty free.
- To reiterate rule #2, don't let disagreements affect friendships. Deleting somebody on Facebook because of their political views. However, if you delete them because they can't adhere to the rules I've posted (which will become law once I hit the publish post button), then by all means, delete delete delete. Idiots are not good friends. And yes, I just got personal; they are my rules after all.
- Discuss what you know. Research what you don't.
- This rule applies when discussing politics with me and is the most important rule: I AM ALWAYS RIGHT. Now you would think this was the easiest rule to follow, but many break it daily. Hey, my list, my rules! Haha.
No, seriously. These aren't the greatest rules and even I am known to break my own rules. This is normal. Emotions can sometimes get the best of people and even Superman, errrr, even I get caught up in the debate/discussion. As long as you do your best to adhere to the rules then all should be well.
I posted this for two reasons. Arizona's law (
SB1070) signed in to law by
Governor Brewer has caused many who don't normally discuss politics to start meddling in the muddy matter. Second, the
2010 elections will be a hot topic this year.
Thanks for reading. Now go discuss your views!
PS. Follow me on Twitter @BobaTitan
