John Wilkins Quotes

I'd rather lose an argument than get into a long discussion in order to win it.

Skillful conversationalists can explore disagreements and make points in ways that feel constructive and positive rather than combative or corrective.

The most important thing in an argument, next to being right, is to leave an escape hatch for your opponent, so that he can gracefully swing over to your side without too much apparent loss of face.

I simply do not think that yelling, swearing, threatening or belittling will get you to the place you want to be faster than kindness, understanding, patience and a little willingness to compromise.

Problems should be solved by talking and not in an aggressive manner.

Soft words and hard arguments.

The more people talk directly to each other, the better. Dialogue is the way of solving issues.

Persuasiveness is really just about getting your ideas across without being forceful. It's a skill that can be learned and is useful for anyone who works in a team environment.

Know how to listen, and you will profit even from those who talk badly.

That most dangerous of opponents: the one who took pains to comprehend the position of his adversary.

If you have learned how to disagree without being disagreeable, then you have discovered the secrete of getting along - whether it be business, family relations, or life itself.

Avoid sarcasm. Don't insist on the last word.

Well, you can't argue with somebody that won't argue back.

One of my strengths is my ability to talk and communicate with people.

The most important guideline when it comes to argument is the golden rule. If someone were addressing your point, what tone, what overall approach would you find persuasive and want her to use? Whatever that is, do it yourself.

We cannot have that relationship if we only dictate or threaten and condemn those who disagree.

Harsh counsels have no effect; they are like hammers, which are always repulsed by the anvil.

We may disagree on some things, but we can do so without being disagreeable.

God does not always give victory to the leaders by means of the sword, nor are such things always accomplished by fighting. But what toil has not procured, words have often effected, and the greatest trophies have been erected by friendly and propitiatory intercourse. Let us therefore not spend our time here uselessly, but endeavor to accomplish something sensible and courageous for our own safety… Let each one of us studiously try to win over the barbarian who guards our respective section.

Lower your voice and strengthen your argument.

The belief in the therapeutic and redemptive force of dialogue depends on the assumption … that, after all, no idea is worth fighting over to the death and that we can always reach a position of accommodation if only we will sit down and talk it out

You cannot just dictate at negotiations. You must also listen.

Don't beg, don't threaten and don't assume you're always right.

I don’t always agree with my wife, but we discuss the issue with love and respect. And then I say “yes.”

If you would convince others, seem open to conviction yourself.