How to have constructive conversations | Julia Dhar

Visit to get our entire library of TED Talks, transcripts, translations, personalized talk recommendations and more.

"We need to figure out how we go into conversations not looking for the victory, but the progress," says world debate champion Julia Dhar. In this practical talk, she shares three essential features of productive disagreements grounded in curiosity and purpose. The end result? Constructive conversations that sharpen your argument and strengthen your relationships.

The TED Talks channel features the best talks and performances from the TED Conference, where the world's leading thinkers and doers give the talk of their lives in 18 minutes (or less). Look for talks on Technology, Entertainment and Design — plus science, business, global issues, the arts and more. You're welcome to link to or embed these videos, forward them to others and share these ideas with people you know.

Become a TED Member:
Follow TED on Twitter:
Like TED on Facebook:
Subscribe to our channel:

TED's videos may be used for non-commercial purposes under a Creative Commons License, Attribution–Non Commercial–No Derivatives (or the CC BY – NC – ND 4.0 International) and in accordance with our TED Talks Usage Policy ( ). For more information on using TED for commercial purposes (e.g. employee learning, in a film or online course), please submit a Media Request at

26 Comments on How to have constructive conversations | Julia Dhar

  1. “I never thought about it exactly that way before, what can you share that would help me see what you see?”

  2. Easier said then done. Especially if in institutions the practice to clash and triumph are the modus operandi preferred and awarded.

  3. A skill that humans are in desperate need of right now (for friendships, relationships and politically)!
    Sadly most conversations seem to come from the perspective of an Olympic sport where ‘winning’ (never conceding to be wrong) is the only objective, whatever the cost!

  4. When one side preemptively “cancels” any sort of counter argument and even maligns them publicly, before even hearing them out…there can be no constructive conversation. The other side may take an absurdly hard-line stance, but there is no “cancelling.”  
    People feel they are forced to turn to alternatives means.

  5. Maybe I’m tripping here, but I’m waiting for Hannibal to appear in the middle of the talk to offer her help…

  6. she is amazing! 😮 The tone of voice, the vocal fry she uses, the notes going high for making a word heard more….. And a comfortable “low” voice for a Lady which makes you want to listen~ Love your words here today! Thank you so~

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published.


*


Shares
Share This