Why Are We Yelling?: The Art of Productive Disagreement by Buster Benson

Why Are We Yelling?: The Art of Productive Disagreement by Buster Benson provides insight into how to effectively disagree with someone without it turning into a shouting match. Buster Benson provides advice on how to have productive disagreement without resorting to anger, judgement, and name-calling. This book is an important read for anyone who wants to have more productive and healthier conversations and relationships.

The book starts by explaining why we need to have productive disagreement in our lives. Benson explains that it is important to address differences of opinion in an effective way in order to prevent misunderstandings, unwanted drama, and conflict from arising. He then offers tools to help people understand why others think the way they do and how to disagree without fear of being judged.

Benson explains how our natural human tendency is to assume the worst in others. We often assume that our opponents do not have the same goals or values as us and therefore make our disagreements with them less productive. Benson suggests that it is important to be aware of our assumptions in order to work towards resolving disagreement in a constructive way. He provides examples of how to evaluate opposing opinions with an open mind and cultivate understanding of our opponent’s viewpoint.

Benson then offers tips on how to communicate effectively during a disagreement. He stresses the importance of effectively using facts and evidence in order to present an argument. Benson also advocates for keeping one’s cool when having a productive disagreement by avoiding personal attacks, talk of “right” or “wrong”, and name-calling. Using active listening during disagreements has also been found to be effective in maintaining respect and understanding while having a disagreement.

Finally, Benson emphasizes the need to focus on solutions rather than attacking each other. He explains that the primary goal of a disagreement should not be to “win” but rather to find mutual understanding. Benson suggests ways to find a compromise or a solution to a disagreement that everyone can be happy with.

Why Are We Yelling?: The Art of Productive Disagreement by Buster Benson offers practical advice on how to have productive disagreements that strive to find common understanding. The book aims to give readers an understanding on how to disagree without resorting to ineffective tactics such as name-calling and personal attacks. Using Benson’s advice, readers may be better prepared to use all their emotional intelligence and understanding of others to effectively engage in disagreement with those around them.