[GBA]

I'm saddened by the whole episode, but more than that, I'm more than a little afraid. I can't help but think about the history of Nazi and pre-Nazi Germany, of the Russian and Chinese "revolutions", and the other repeated examples of the horrors of socialism and the relative ease with which their countries' populations accepted them, even with enthusiasm.

My mom's family is German and of all remaining family, I am the lone conservative. I used to wonder how something like Hitler could have risen up from people who looked like all my mom's side of the family and now I finally do understand.

It is an odd sort of quiet terror to not be able to figure out how to change their minds, so I have finally given up on that.

Instead, I'm taking the computer virus/worm infection approach and I try to open up enough space to plant a kernel or two of fact enough for cognitive dissonance to take effect and then walk away.

No argument. No fighting. Humor or soft ridicule or emotionless matter of fact, all very short, no speeches, and quit. No more beating up anyone. Instead, be a resource, not a sparing partner, that's my new approach.

These people need education and it's hard to get them to lower their shields enough for them to see that.

Once that's accomplished, it's all about selling and you already have the best products! Learn how to sell.

[libertarian27]

No argument. No fighting. Humor or soft ridicule or emotionless matter of fact, all very short, no speeches, and quit. No more beating up anyone. Instead, be a resource, not a sparing partner, that's my new approach.

These people need education and it's hard to get them to lower their shields enough for them to see that.

Once that's accomplished, it's all about selling and you already have the best products! Learn how to sell.

Agree Wholeheartedly
My husband and I are doing this now to people we talk to out and about, people posting to on message boards, etc. No flame wars, no arguing to the nth degree.

Humor, short answers, facts, research suggestions...well wishes of "well, have fun with that...hope it works out for you..."
Walk away
In person they look at you strange - yearning for the fight - they aren't getting it anymore - they are very disappointed and trying to figure out what's going on...as we walk away

Consider yourself a teacher in the inner city - you aren't going to make them learn - they have to want to learn and seek you out...be funny, short, give dribbles of interesting info, don't teach the unteachable-kick them out of your class - make them ask for more, not challenge your lesson plan....to do otherwise, you're just a burnt-out tenured teacher going through the motions.