Debate
- Assuming that there is one right answer and that you have it
- Combative: participants attempt to prove the other side wrong
- About winning
- Listening to find flaws and make counterarguments
- Defending assumptions as truth
- Critiquing the other side’s position
- Defending one’s own views against those of others
- Searching for flaws and weaknesses in other positions
- Seeking a conclusion or vote that ratifies your position
Dialogue
- Assuming that many people have pieces of the answer and that only together can they craft a solution
- Collaborative: participants work together toward common understanding
- About learning
- Listening to understand and find meaning
- Revealing assumptions for reevaluation
- Reexamining all positions
- Admitting that others’ thinking can improve one’s own
- Searching for strengths and value in others’ positions
- Discovering new opinions, not seeking closure
Adapted from “What makes dialogue unique” in The Magic of Dialogue by Daniel Yankelovich, pp. 39-40