Seth's Blog : Language conceals and reveals

When a non-expert brings a strong point of view to a complex discussion, the words might not mean what they seem to mean. What might be being said is, “I'm worried. I'm afraid. I don't understand. I am looking for solace. ” Answering emotional word ... # [View Online]( --------------------------------------------------------------- [] [Language conceals and reveals]( When a non-expert brings a strong point of view to a complex discussion, the words might not mean what they seem to mean. What might be being said is, “I’m worried. I’m afraid. I don’t understand. I am looking for solace.” Answering emotional word salad with logical insight doesn’t do anything at all for these feelings. If the argument you’re hearing isn’t based on what we know to be true, and doesn’t lead to a logical conclusion, it could be because it’s not actually seeking to be a productive discussion. It’s awkward to say “yadda, yadda” but that might be what’s on offer. When in doubt, look for the emotions and desires behind the words. People often don’t want their arguments to be heard as much as they’re hoping their emotions will be. [Add to Any]( [Digg This]( [Add to FaceBook]( [Add to LinkedIn]( [Pin it!]() [Post to X.com]( [Subscribe by email]( [Subscribe by RSS](  • [Email to a friend]( conceals and reveals;17470835) • You're getting this note because you subscribed to Seth Godin's blog. Don't want to get this email anymore? Click the link below to unsubscribe. [Safely Unsubscribe]( • [Archives](subscriberid=150530305&validate=6d3c0645f60c73f7130adcdf8dd69e3b&portal=1081591) • [Preferences]( • [Contact]( • [Subscribe]( • [Privacy]( Email subscriptions powered by [FeedBlitz®]() • [650 E. Palisade Avenue Ste 2, PO Box 173 • Englewood Cliffs, NJ 07632](