| Dialogue is about learning: |
Debate is about winning: |
| Assuming that others have pieces of
the answer |
Assuming that there is one right answer – and
you have it |
| Collaborative: attempting to find common
understanding |
Combative: attempting to prove the other
side wrong |
| About finding common ground |
About winning |
| Listening to understand and find a basis
for agreement |
Listening to find flaws and make counter-arguments |
| Bringing up your assumptions for inspection
and discussion |
Defending your assumptions |
| Re-examining all points of view |
Criticizing the other side's point of
view |
| Admitting that others' thinking can
improve your own |
Defending your views against others |
| Searching for strengths and value in
the other position |
Searching for weaknesses and flaws in
the other position |
| Discovering new possibilities and opportunities |
Seeking an outcome that agrees with
your position |
Dialogue is a special kind of discourse employing
distinctive skills to achieve mutual understanding
and mutual trust and respect. 