How can I get better at arguments?
Science can definitely help here, thanks to erisology: the study of disagreements. A study in journal Psychological Science indicated that people who claim to know what theyre talking about often arent able to articulate their argument well, so begin by asking your opponent in detail what exactly they believe. The same study found that the act of explaining also dilutes extreme views, so this could really help your case. Exercise moral foundations theory. Proposed by social psychologist Jonathan Haidt, it suggests our moral taste buds exist in six major areas: care, fairness, loyalty, authority, sanctity and liberty. A 2017 study outlined that left-leaning folk prioritise care, while right-wingers favour loyalty, authority and sanctity. Liberty and fairness are important across the board, so try reframing your argument according to your opponents beliefs. If youre talking, avoid it. Thats the argument put forward by one University of British Columbia study that observed participants with opposing views state their cases on controversial issues. Using eye-tracking technology, the researchers found the more time participants spent looking at a speakers eyes, the less persuaded they were by their argument. In short: follow this rule, and only victory should be in your sights. Asked by: Sara Flynn, Portsmouth  Read more:  Advertisement  To submit your questions email us at questions@sciencefocus.com (dont forget to include your name and location)