Softly, Softly, Catchee Monkey


I know how frustrating it is when trying to change the opinions of others. This is best summed up by the saying, ‘Convince a fool against his will he’ll hold the same opinion still.’ Holding on to one’s belief is a survival mechanism so resistance to new ideas is natural.

When debating an issue it is futile to go on the offensive as it causes one’s adversary to go on the defensive. Even if the contender knows you are right, his pride won’t allow him to capitulate. Selling an idea is no different from selling a product or service. You first grab the attention (A). You get their interest (I). You create desire (D), and you inspire action (A). You end up with what is known in the sales environment as A.I.D.A.

Try this approach: (A) I can’t stop thinking about a very disturbing book I have just finished. (I) I don’t think it is for you though. (D) He is curious. (A) He now wants to see the book. An alternative approach:

Jim, I have just read a very disturbing book. I am not sure what to make of it. Do me a favour. Will you read it and give me your opinion when we next have a beer.

You want to show others that you are smarter than they are. Good, here are the formulae for success. First you read the parts of Witness to History you are interested in. Then, when in conversation you turn the conversation your way. Example:

They call it the Russian revolution but name me a single Russian on the Bolshevik government’s Central Committee.

That got them thinking didn’t it? Half an hour’s homework on the relevant section of Witness to History and your table-talk companions are going to wave the White flag.

There is always the possibility that a know-it-all will want to joust: A good retort is to ask him if he is acquainted with the teachings of U.S. President Abraham Lincoln. He doesn’t want to appear dumb so he will give the impression that he has some familiarity with the subject. When he takes the bait this is your opportunity to remind him that Lincoln once remarked: “It is better to keep one’s mouth shut and be thought a fool than to open it and remove all doubt.” NOTE: Don’t try this if your opponent is bigger than you are.

Satire and ridicule are great weapons and can lighten the mood. British Union of Fascist leader Oswald Mosley was often heckled by reds when addressing open-air meetings. A favourite trick of his was to, after a moment’s pause, call down to the heckler: “You’re obviously familiar with Das Kapital by Karl Marx. You have read both volumes.” Invariably the idiot would claim to have done so. At this point Mosley would point out that Marx penned only one volume.

Of course you do not have to memorise the relevant bits of Witness to History. As you are in the driving seat you pick and choose your table talk topic. As you go through life you will have fun, add to your street cred, and sign up fellow-travellers. Happy Hunting.

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