How Can You Convince Someone They’re Wrong?

To help someone realize that they’re wrong, start by recognizing the ways that they’re right.

Blaise Pascal, a 17th-century philosopher, once wrote, “When we wish to show another that he errs, we must notice from what side he views the matter. For on that side, it is usually true, and we must admit that truth to him, but reveal to him the side on which it is false. He is satisfied with that, for he sees that he was not mistaken and that he only failed to see all sides.” In other words, to change someone’s mind, first listen to his or her reasoning and acknowledge any truth you find there before contributing opposing knowledge from a different viewpoint.

Similarly, self-help guru Dale Carnegie suggests helping your opponents to feel heard before trying to change their mind, and psychologist Robert Cialdini encourages cultivating likability and reciprocity. Many view these techniques as manipulative. However, trying to persuade someone who clings to an opposing point of view may trigger an angry, aggressive response if you don’t approach the dialogue...