From The Daily Dialogue

Broadcast of 1/2/98

Subject: [DailyDialogue #2] Dialogue v. Discussion

Seek first to understand, rather than to be understood. - Steven Covey

We seek to encourage the most effective communication between partners. We begin by drawing a distinction between dialogue and discussion. In so doing, we diverge slightly from dictionary definitions; we urge you to suspend critical judgement until you understand where this path leads.
Discussion is an exchange of ideas, usually with emphasis on convincing the other of one's point of view. Dialogue is communication with an emphasis on achieving complete understanding of the thoughts and feelings of both parties. Discussion is related to percussion; bouncing ideas off of each other. Dialogue is is related to logos; cooperation in the search for reason, for truth.

Experiment: Rent the video "Dances With Wolves." Watch the part where the tribal council considers what to do about the white settlers. Notice how the tribal peoples sought wisdom in dialogue, and how the structure of taking turns in the wisdom circle assisted them, even under extreme stress.

Affirmation: I express my love for you by seeking to completely understand you.
The Daily Dialogue is published each day of 1998 by e-mail. Copyright 1998, Eddy Brame and Marty Crouch, All rights reserved.

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