The Triumph of Reason: Getting Along with People Who Disagree with Us

These are the marks of reasonable people:

·     Those who think rationally have a respect for the convictions of others.

·     Reasonable people are willing to examine their motives for believing what they believe.

·     Because most of us don't know what we don't know, reasonable people seek friends who can be brutally honest about our deficiencies.

·     Reasonable people attempt to learn from those with whom they disagree.

·     Those who use reason to form opinions have the courtesy to reflect back what a person has said and only when the other agrees that his summation is correct can he then proceed to discuss what he thinks followed by generously listening to feedback.

·     A rational person combines analysis with feelings to produce meaningful action. Wise people are well rounded--they read poetry and novels, go to movies, art museums, plays and listen to a wide range of music. They attend sporting events and automobile shows. They are constantly learning and expanding their horizons. Intellectual pursuits alone tend to wear away feelings.

·     Those who use reason to form opinions enjoy social interaction with a wide range of people including those who disagree with them.They treat others with respect and are generous toward the motives and opinions of others.

·     Reasonable people think clearly and talk plainly. They can succinctly summarize their ideas in words that just about everybody can understand.

·     When facts change rational people change their minds.

·     When faced with provocation reasonable people take a few minutes or a day or two to calm down before making a response, Using this phrase, perhaps: “Let me think about what you said.” 
Reasonable people after listening carefully and humbly may alter their positions somewhat (or they may not). Nonetheless, they possess the courage of their convictions and express them kindly with good will to all. 

Rational people seek to know more, work toward understanding others better, and strive to become useful to those they encounter.