Dialogue
The Final Lesson of Peacemaking: Ask Better Questions
What sustains peacemaking? Thoughtful questions grounded in empathy, clarity, and humility guide resolution.
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December 11, 2025
What sustains peacemaking? Thoughtful questions grounded in empathy, clarity, and humility guide resolution.
What is power? It is self-mastery and persuasive virtue that honors agency, invites participation, and endures.
How can disciples remain kind without compromising truth? By asking sincere questions and turning toward others.
What is conflict? Conflict is not the same as contention. It is a neutral force that, when handled wisely, fosters growth and peace.
What role does emotional control play in peacemaking? Managing anger allows logic to guide solutions effectively.
How did Dr. King’s nonviolent approach shape America’s racial discourse? Through scripture and history, King’s “Dream” speech masterfully balanced moral integrity with a call for change.
This is the sixth in a series by Arthur Peña, Charles Randall Paul, and Jacob Hess called “Inevitable Influencers: Why (deep down) we all want—and need—to persuade each other of what we see as good, beautiful, and true.” Previous pieces include “Why Persuasion Should be a Sweet (Not a Dirty) Word”; “The Threat of Persuasion,” and “My Truth? Your Truth? No Truth?”; “The Virtues of Strong Disagreement,” and “Our Judgment Against Judgment.”
After another contentious Presidential election, Americans are feeling unsettled and angry. If you’re looking for a way to opt out of the rancor this holiday season, Tracy Hollister has some advice.
In all the debate around appropriate accountability, reform, and policy change, far less attention has gone to how to find healing together as a people.
Serious differences generate serious discomfort for us all. Could that be why they’re so good for us?
