I don't actually think it is a bad thing to ask relatives to refrain from talking politics or business at the dinner table. Especially if this is a general rule whenever you sit down to eat. There is a time and place for certain conversations, maybe that isn't one to have while you are eating food. But one to have afterwards during evening activities.
@sim Exactly, when I eat I want to be comfortable. So in turn I only want comfortable conversation. Business/Politics/Religion/Anything that can create conflict or bad vibes is not comfortable.
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@orekix I think that it is more of a cultural thing. You have to find what works for your family.
@rain True, I usually don't mind talking about how ones day went at the dinner table. But it is more for eating the meal together and being thankful that this is possible.
@sim We usually don't talk politics at the holiday dinner table, there aren't many disagreements to be had, there's just better things to talk about. We usually a have a real nice time together, but I'm not sure if that's why or not.
@thedonnerd That's also true. What sorts of things do you usually end up talking about instead?
@coldacid It's more of a polite thing. It seems that your family members either don't realise that they are discussing politics or they aren't being polite and end up acting hypocritical. If there is an agreement to not discuss politics while eating, you can challenge them on it. Note that I don't say no politics at family events, there is definitely a time for it. This is more when eating at the table itself. This is not traditionally done here at least. It may depend on culture.
@amerika What a shame. If common sense were more common, we'd be in a better place.
@coldacid Well, that sucks. It shouldn't be weaponised in this manner. Once a rule, everyone must abide by it or they break the contract. That damages the family relationship. If only there was a way to get them to recognise this. It seems family ties mean less these days..
It's why I emphasize hierarchy: get the smart people into power and sequestering wealth, power, influence, etc. so it doesn't become toxic and corrupt the rest of us.
But yes, common sense is uncommon. I seem to recall a pamphlet with a similar name.
@amerika Could be interesting to read that pamphlet. See what insights it draws on.
What is it about the smart people that means it won't become as toxic and corrupting to us?
What is it about the smart people that means it won't become as toxic and corrupting to us?
@sim Who knows, anything really, especially my mom, who can go from one subject to the next faster than anybody I know. hehe The guys are usually talking about hunting or fishing and us girls, well, just girl talk. 😁
@thedonnerd Sounds quite typical and traditional in that sense then! But I think you are right, plenty of hobbies to discuss instead. Unless you happen to be me where my hobby is reading into politics and worldly issues!
I think this is an evolutionary challenge to us, by the way -- we either get over "me first" (equality) or we fade away.
@amerika I suppose the way to do that is to redirect that "me first" mentality into something that encourages people to recognise that it is in their best interests to include others like family and community. To help them to realise that it isn't just about them any more. Relationships and children are what usually do this but with how competitive and broken that has become, it is a worrying trend that we may not get this instinct back.
@amerika Thanks! Another one to save and read. I was already having fun learning about medieval virtue and manners for children earlier.
@sim Oh boy!😊 You guys have fun! Happy Thanksgiving to you and all your folks.🙏🎈
@thedonnerd Fortunately it isn't my only hobby!
Thanks, but I don't celebrate Thanksgiving. Hope that you enjoy yours and have much cheer with family though.
Thanks, but I don't celebrate Thanksgiving. Hope that you enjoy yours and have much cheer with family though.
@amerika It helps that I have an interest in the area and it helps with my research/study.
@amerika Yes, I think you are right. It would require culture.