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Key points
- Some beliefs improve people's lives, while others do untold harm.
- Strong beliefs, including in politics, are deeply tied to identity and can take time to change.
- Helping someone reexamine harmful beliefs isn’t about forcing a new perspective but about gently guiding them.
Beliefs are like possessions. Some we cling to as prized treasures, while others weigh us down and hold us back. Damaging political beliefs can act as heavy burdens, fueling divisiveness, stifling growth, and preventing productive discourse. Helping someone reexamine these beliefs isn’t about forcing a new perspective but about gently guiding them toward understanding and discovery, encouraging them to see possibilities they may not have imagined.
Understanding the Psychology of Political Belief
Political beliefs form how individuals view the world and its systems. However, certain political beliefs can be particularly harmful, fostering fear, anger, or a sense of superiority over others. These beliefs can entrench divisions and even drive harmful actions. Changing them requires more than presenting facts; it involves addressing the brain’s attachment to familiar ideologies and the psychological processes that reinforce political beliefs.
Cognitive dissonance theory, developed by Leon Festinger, explains why people cling to political beliefs even when presented with contradicting information. When a belief is challenged, it creates an uncomfortable tension—cognitive dissonance—that people often resolve by reinforcing their current viewpoint. This is common in political discussions, where beliefs are often tied to personal or group identity. By understanding this process, we can approach belief change with greater patience and strategy.
Building Trust and Rapport in Political Discussions
Encouraging someone to reconsider a political belief starts with creating a foundation of trust and mutual respect. People are more likely to consider new perspectives when they feel understood and respected by the person presenting those perspectives. Instead of immediately confronting the belief, ask questions that show genuine interest in understanding its origins and the emotions tied to it.
For example, if someone strongly believes that “all politicians are corrupt,” an empathetic response might be: “What led you to feel that way about politicians?” or “How do you see this belief affecting your view of politics in general?” This nonjudgmental approach allows people to reflect on their beliefs openly, without feeling they need to defend themselves, making them more receptive to alternative perspectives over time.
Using the Socratic Method to Encourage Self-Reflection
The Socratic Method, widely used in cognitive behavioral therapy, is an effective tool for helping others examine their political beliefs through gentle questioning rather than direct confrontation. By asking thought-provoking questions, you can guide someone to reflect critically on their beliefs.
If someone feels strongly that “the government only works for special interests,” try asking questions like, “What do you think drives certain politicians to work in public service?” or “Are there examples of leaders who have demonstrated integrity despite these challenges?” These questions invite the individual to consider examples that don’t fit their belief without directly challenging it, allowing them to broaden their perspective.
Gradually Introducing Contradictory Evidence
When trying to help someone reconsider a political belief, avoid overwhelming them with facts, which often triggers defensiveness. Instead, introduce contradictory evidence gradually, in small and digestible pieces that respect their pace of processing.
If someone believes “the government never acts in the public’s best interest,” share subtle, positive stories about local policies or representatives making a positive difference. Over time, this approach allows the individual to begin re-evaluating their stance without feeling defensive or overwhelmed. Acknowledging their concerns while presenting positive examples can help them start seeing the government’s role in a more nuanced light.
Presenting Alternative Narratives
Narratives are powerful tools for shifting political beliefs, as people are more likely to accept ideas embedded in a story. Often, individuals hold onto certain political beliefs due to the stories they’ve internalized about national history, leadership, or governmental roles. Presenting an alternative narrative can help reframe these beliefs.
For instance, if someone believes that “governments always suppress freedoms,” consider sharing stories of political leaders who have championed civil rights or democratic principles. Highlighting such narratives provides real-world examples that encourage a new view of government roles, allowing the individual to see government as a potential force for positive change. Choosing stories aligned with their values or interests can make these narratives more credible and relatable.
Reinforcing Small Positive Shifts
Belief change in politics can be slow and incremental, so it’s essential to recognize and reinforce small moments when someone shows openness to new ideas or expresses a shift in thinking. Positive reinforcement encourages them to stay open to further changes, supporting a growth-oriented mindset.
For example, if someone who previously distrusted all political figures expresses some interest in a local representative, reinforce that shift by acknowledging their openness. A response like, “It’s great to see you recognizing a leader who shares your values,” can encourage further exploration. Celebrating these small steps shows that belief change doesn’t need to be all-or-nothing and that openness can add depth to their political understanding.
Recognizing the Role of Identity in Political Beliefs
Political beliefs are often deeply intertwined with a person’s identity, and challenging them can feel threatening, as though they’re being asked to abandon part of themselves or their group loyalty. Social identity theory suggests that people are more likely to reject new ideas that seem to conflict with their group’s beliefs, as this can feel like a loss of social belonging.
Rather than framing belief change as a rejection of identity, help them see it as a potential evolution. For instance, if someone identifies strongly with a particular political ideology, recognize the values they hold but suggest that there are multiple ways to honor those values. This approach allows them to consider new beliefs without feeling they must abandon their political identity.
The Gentle Art of Political Influence
Belief change in politics is a journey of patience, empathy, and respect. By building trust, using gentle questioning, sharing alternative narratives, and reinforcing incremental progress, we create an environment where individuals feel safe to examine the beliefs that no longer serve them or society. Rather than pushing for immediate change, we can help people explore new perspectives that lead to healthier, more constructive political discourse. Actual change in political beliefs lies not in heated debates but in the power of gentle, respectful influence that fosters understanding and connection across divides.
