What Goes Without Saying: Navigating Political Discussion in America

Political conversations are often uncomfortable for many people due to the 4D Framework of political conversation: identifying others' views, deciding whether to talk, discussing opinions honestly, and determining whether to repeat the experience.

Format: Hardback
Length: 300 pages
Publication date: 09 June 2022
Publisher: Cambridge University Press

The study of political discourse has been a central focus of research in recent years, with a particular emphasis on the structure of people's discussion networks and the frequency with which they engage in political conversations. While much attention has been paid to these factors, the dynamics of the conversations themselves have received less attention. In their book, "What Goes Without Saying," Taylor N. Carlson and Jaime E. Settle aim to address this gap by investigating how Americans navigate these discussions in their daily lives.

The authors employ a multi-methods approach to unpack what they call the 4D Framework of political conversation. This framework encompasses four key dimensions: identifying the ways in which people detect others' views, deciding whether to engage in political conversation, discussing their opinions honestly, and determining whether they will repeat the experience in the future. By examining these dimensions, the authors seek to provide a comprehensive understanding of political discussion as a social process.

One of the key insights of the book is that political conversation is not always comfortable or easy. The authors argue that there are many factors that can contribute to discomfort, including differences in political beliefs, social norms, and cultural backgrounds. Additionally, the nature of political discourse can be highly charged and emotionally charged, leading to tensions and disagreements.

To navigate these challenges, the authors suggest a number of strategies. These include being open-minded and willing to listen to others' perspectives, avoiding personal attacks and ad hominem arguments, and seeking out opportunities for respectful dialogue and compromise. The authors also emphasize the importance of building relationships and trust with others, which can facilitate more productive and meaningful political conversations.

Overall, "What Goes Without Saying" is a valuable contribution to the study of political discourse. By providing a comprehensive framework for understanding the dynamics of political conversation, the book sets the agenda for research in political science, psychology, communication, and sociology for decades to come. The authors' insights and strategies will be of interest to anyone who wants to better understand the complexities of political discourse and engage more effectively in political conversations.

Weight: 600g
Dimension: 236 x 156 x 20 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781108831864