This is the fifth in a series called “Argue Better 2021” about how we can improve how we argue, discuss, and engage with each other. If you missed the previous entries, you can find them here: first | second | third | fourth People tell me that I look like my brother. I don't see … Continue reading Build Agreement (Argue Better 2021 #5)
Author: Jonathan Mates
Get curious, then confirm (Argue Better 2021 #4)
This is the fourth in a series called “Argue Better 2021” about how we can improve how we argue, discuss, and engage with each other. If you missed the previous entries, you can find them here: first | second | third I have a friend- let's call him Ned - who was having a tough … Continue reading Get curious, then confirm (Argue Better 2021 #4)
Choose the right partner (Argue Better 2021 #3)
This is the third in a series called "Argue Better 2021" about how we can improve how we argue, discuss, and engage with each other. If you missed the previous entries, you can find them here: first second Some readers wrote to me after the last post saying that they've tried to connect with people, … Continue reading Choose the right partner (Argue Better 2021 #3)
What would it take to change your mind? (Argue Better 2021 #2)
This is the second in a series called "Argue Better 2021" exploring how we might engage better with each other. If you want to start at the beginning, check out this post. In one of my college anthropology courses the class was presented with an unexpected question: What would convince you that the theory of … Continue reading What would it take to change your mind? (Argue Better 2021 #2)
Argue Better 2021
Let's face it, we argued pretty poorly in 2020. We didn't really even argue or discuss - we mostly stated our positions, clapped for those who agreed, and shouted at those who didn't. Many say you can't discuss things with those who have closed minds, openly hate, or don't come to the conversation with honest … Continue reading Argue Better 2021
Unfortunately, this is who we are
Yesterday all Americans were stunned, even if they saw it coming, by the sight of an angry mob storming and occupying the Capitol. As we waited to hear the response from our leadership, I found myself silently hoping "Please don't say 'this isn't who we are.'" Unfortunately, that's exactly what many leaders said. But at … Continue reading Unfortunately, this is who we are
RSNA 2020: Attending a virtual medical conference
Every year on the weekend after after Thanksgiving, much to the disappointment of my family, I fly to Chicago to attend one of the largest medical conferences in the world: the RSNA (Radiological Society of North America) annual meeting. The conference is huge, with tens of thousands of attendees, hundreds of educational talks and posters, … Continue reading RSNA 2020: Attending a virtual medical conference
Red Goggles 