Commonwealth Policy Center

In our digital saturated, short-attention-span, politically charged, I need-to-be-right- at-any-cost culture, it’s near impossible to have a conversation—even with family members. But if we care about civility we must rediscover the lost art of conversation Here are a few pointers. Be patient and try to understand the other person. Practice active listening and ask clarifying questions. And then ask more questions to better understand the other person. Try to understand what experiences shaped who they are and why they think the way they do. Consider the amount of time and the appropriate setting. The art of conversation can be recaptured and may God help us, if our civilization and civility are to be maintained, each of us needs to become better listeners and conversationalists.