Dialogue

Dialogue is a process of open-minded interaction, where people come together to seek mutual understanding and common ground.

“In dialogue the intention is not to advocate but to inquire; not to argue but to explore; not to convince but to discover.”

Louise Diamond, The Institute for Multi-Track Diplomacy

 

The word ‘dialogue’ is used so frequently today in business, politics and the media that it risks losing all meaning. For Carbon Talks, dialogue means much more than a casual conversation. Dialogue is a respectful, free flowing but structured conversation among a diverse group of people who bring different life experiences and viewpoints to the discussion. It is a special kind of conversation that involves learning and working together to understand different points of view to try to build some common ground. Having a dialogue does not mean that all differences disappear or that 100% consensus emerges but it does give energy to the search for common understanding. It encourages each of us to listen intently and to carefully consider perspectives and views that are different from our own. With a purpose to expand knowledge and create mutual understanding through the consideration of alternatives, dialogue encourages us to be open to the possibility of learning new ways to think about public issues.