Context Bridging

No matter our position on a particular issue, we possess a variety of ideas, values, experiences, and information that shapes how we think about that issue. This is our context, and it shapes how we process the claims and ideas presented by others. At the same time, others possess a variety of ideas, values, experiences, and information that shape how they process the claims and ideas that we present. This is their context, and it can differ significantly from our context.

In other words, we each have a unique context. We each possess a unique combination of ideas, values, experiences, and information that shape how we think about a particular issue and process information.

When we disagree with others, it is because our contexts differ. They have different ideas, values, experiences, and information than we do. The difference in context is what creates the differences in our conclusions on a particular issue.

This does not mean that all contexts are created equal—they aren’t. Some people evade facts that are uncomfortable. Some people hold nefarious values and find pleasure in inflicting pain on others. Some people have had horrible experiences and have drawn erroneous conclusions as a result. Some people accept as true information provided by dishonest sources. But whatever the vices or virtues of an individual, they possess a unique context. And if we wish to engage in a constructive conversation with them, we must recognize and accept this fact.

The fact that someone disagrees with us does not mean that they are evasive, dishonest, or evil. It means that they have a different context.

A key component to a constructive conversation is to recognize the differences in context and then bridge those differences. Persuasion is the process of moving someone closer to our context—bridging the difference in our contexts. It means providing them with new information, correcting their errors, and modifying half-truths that they have accepted. It also means being willing to accept new information, correct our own errors, and modify half-truths that we have accepted. If we want others to honestly consider our ideas, we must we willing to honestly consider theirs. Context bridging is the process of closing the gap between contexts.