How To Talk Politics With Your Crazy Relatives During The Holidays

Think Progress put it more kindly: “How to Discuss Climate Change With Your Uncle During the Holidays.” However, these precepts can be applied to any discussion that comes with family members who don’t see things your way. To summarize Russell McLendon‘s tips:

1. Don’t blow hot air: Whether you’re debating your uncle or a stranger, it helps to know what you’re talking about. Doing your homework will help ensure you always have a response ready without resorting to hyperbole.

2. Don’t be insulting: There’s no going back from ad hominem attacks. Don’t treat your uncle like he’s dumb, and don’t be rude or condescending.

3. Cite your sources: No one expects you to bring a bibliography to [Christmas], but it would help if you could at least rattle off a few reputable sources of your information.

4. Don’t mix science and politics: Climate change will never be solved without broad, coordinated political action, but that doesn’t mean it needs to start at your dinner table.

5. Take a break: Your family is a captive audience during a holiday meal, so don’t bore them with endless bickering.

By: Alan

Alan Colmes is the publisher of Liberaland.