The science of influencing people: six ways to win an argument

This is a list of key vocabulary and expressions from the article in order of how useful they are. The student must choose 6 items from the list to study in the lesson.

To tend to

To lead to 

Root

Stubborn

To come across (something/ someone)

Biased

To be willing to do something

Subtle

Bribery

Closed-minded

Broad

A flaw

Shallow

A breakthrough

To mislead someone

Vague

In-depth

To trigger

To sway (meaning to persuade)

To flatter someone

To own up

15 conversation-provoking questions related to the article.

  1. When was the last time you changed your mind?

  2. What type of beliefs are very hard to change?

  3. What type of beliefs are easier to change?

  4. Do you enjoy debating?

  5. What type of people are good at debating?

  6. Do you respect people who never change their mind?

  7. Do you respect people who frequently admit that they were wrong?

  8. Is your boss a stubborn person?

  9. Do you need to be stubborn to be a good leader?

  10. Are referendums a good idea?

  11. Is there a big political issue that divides your country?

  12. Why do some people always vote for the same parties in elections?

  13. Are you a tribal voter?

  14. Are you biased in the way you interpret information?

  15. Do you only read perspectives that you agree with?

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