Election Day 2020: 5 Good Ground Rules for Engaging in Political Discussions on Social Media Tech Motherhood

Nancy Dafoe
3 years ago

While it is easier not to engage in political discussions these days, we are leaving an awful lot of important topics off the table if we don’t dare venture into the feasts that are political in nature. Yet, we also don’t want to be in angry, mean discussions or be insulted. Here are some good ground rules for political discourse to share with social media friends and acquaintances: 

  1. No generalizations. Talk policy or topic specifics.
  2. Ask for and use verified, credible sources for statistics and information.
  3. No insults or profanity, even the mild ones.
  4. Be positive in your position argument, not in contrast to something else.
  5. Block people who can’t abide by these simple rules of civility. (No bots, trolls and people just looking for a fight.)

How do you handle political arguments online? Will you vote?

The content on 30Seconds.com is for informational and entertainment purposes only. The opinions or views expressed on 30Seconds.com do not necessarily represent those of 30Seconds or any of its employees, corporate partners or affiliates.

Take 30 seconds and join the 30Seconds community. Inspire and be inspired.

See more tips on 30Seconds.com – Inspire and be inspired!

Comments (8)

Nancy Dafoe
Thanks for sharing, Ann Marie.
Grace Babcock
This is so important to remember!
Nancy Dafoe
Thank you, Grace.
Nicole DeAvilla
I usually avoid political discussions on line! I sometimes repost or like others posts if I think it follows your rules above. Having healthy political dialogue with people from different points of view is very important. Our family talks politics all of the time. But then we tend to agree...
Elisa Schmitz
Politics has always been a hot button topic, but it seems like it's even moreso these days. I find myself nervous to venture into these types of discussions, but a healthy discourse is always better than avoidance, I guess! Thanks for the help, Nancy Dafoe !
S Roberts
I fortunately I’ve yet to see or observe a political discussion yet where these rules were followed. I’ve said this before, the political climate in America today is so fundamentally divided that you’re either preaching to the choir or throwing a rock at a hornet’s nest. So it’s a topic my circle of friends and I have chosen not to discuss when we get together! But that’s just for us.
Gwen Johnson
Good tips. Hope I remember them tonight after the second glass of wine... Vote!
Post a comment

Related tips

See also


30seconds.com is a place to connect, discover and share inspiring tips - 30 seconds at a time.
Go to 30seconds.com

Let's Connect