How do we talk about issues that matter?

I think that when discussing issues that matter it's important to keep an open mind. Just because someone might see something one way and you may see it another doesn't mean you can't listen, they could still add something new to your perspective or vice versa. It should never be seen as a contest of who knows more than who, but as a way for you and everyone involved to reach a greater understanding. One thing you can do when engaging in discussion on issues that matter is to keep a moderate tone. No one wants to feel less than, or that you're trying to prove somehow that they are wrong. By keeping a moderate tone you will be easier to follow along with and you will also make the audience feel more comfortable. As someone that is diagnosed with social anxiety, I know how hard it can be to talk to people in general, let alone on issues that matter that are more than likely controversial. Learning how to control your emotions in these situations could be a good place to start if you share the same fear of talking to people as I do. Try just sitting back and really listening and thinking about the topic at hand and what the speaker is saying about it. Thinking clearly about something before you speak will allow you to give your thoughts on the issue in a more confident and put-together way, which in the end will benefit both you and your audience.