Building Shared Ground in Communication
To build shared ground despite relativism, consider these approaches:
- Define Common Terms: Agree on key definitions or concepts to ensure everyone understands the terms in the same way.
- Establish Context: Recognize the specific social, cultural, and historical context to frame the discussion meaningfully.
- Foster Empathy: Engage with others’ perspectives openly and respectfully, validating their experiences and interpretations.
- Use Pragmatic Goals: Focus on practical outcomes and problem-solving, which provides a concrete basis for dialogue despite differing viewpoints.
- Encourage Reflexivity: Reflect on your own assumptions and invite others to do the same, helping to create a dynamic understanding that moves toward a shared stance.