How to Avoid Controversial Religious Arguments

Among the list of social taboos, talk of religion is pretty close to the top. We live in a world of vast cultural diversity and various contradicting beliefs. Many times, people can gather and discuss these beliefs in a civil manner. Other times, a conversation can be a few words away from becoming a full-blown shouting match. Here is how to avoid controversial religious arguments.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

1. Do the best you can to steer the conversation to a benign topic. Even offering a cliché icebreaker such as "So, how 'bout those Bears?" can provide a laugh and ease the level of tension that may have developed.
2. Take an "agree to disagree" stance in the conversation. Explain that a single discussion will do nothing to alter a person's long-held beliefs, and trying to do so is only serving to drag down the mood of the atmosphere.
3. Be respectful of the opinions of others, even if they differ from your own. While it might be tempting to offer a contradictory retort, it's easier to just say we're all entitled to our own perceptions.
4. Keep your temper in check. Remember that some people will force uncomfortable issues just to get a rise out of others. Killing those people with kindness will diffuse a situation faster than if you continue to stoke the fire.
5. Know when to simply walk away. If a person or persons insist on driving an issue that causes discomfort, inform them that you're not comfortable with the direction the discussion is taking and politely excuse yourself.

Tips & Warnings

• Never resort to insulting the religious beliefs of another when attempting to get a point across. This usually results in nothing more than alienation and hurt feelings.