Listen to my podcast episode on this essay here!
Title Of the Art of Conversation
Author Michel De Montaigne
How strongly I recommend it 8/10
My Impressions A great essay about strengthening your own thinking and getting to the truth through the art of conversation
Practical Takeaways
Don't just read. Have discussions with people
Welcome disagreement in conversation
Seek out people to converse with who will treated you roughly, not people who fear you or are in awe of you
Welcome constructive criticism on your writing
Don't get mad and offended if someone doesn't follow your advice
Welcome the truth no matter who is saying it
Make your aim in conversation getting at the truth, not winning the argument
Don't judge the decision by the outcome "…we must not judge plans by results."
Don't make sweeping generalizations
Press people when they make sweeping generalizations
Praise the idea, not the man (same with criticizing ideas)
Big Ideas