Should we avoid discussing political issues like immigration with family and friends who have different beliefs?

On Lunchtime Live today, social policy lecturer Steph Hanlon said talking about controversial subjects “is crucial for combatting misinformation”.

She noted that Ireland is becoming increasingly polarised when it comes to things like immigration, housing, Gaza, COVID-19, and the climate.

Ms Hanlon said the solution to polarisation is conversation.

“Even though we say not to talk politics at the dinner table or pub, it still ends up happening,” she said.

“I think talking about polarising issues is crucial for combatting misinformation by clarifying facts, promoting critical thinking, and building trust.

“Migration is just one of a host of issues that is being increasingly polarised, but there are so many other issues too.”

'Personal attack'

Christine O’Mahony in Mullingar told the show she is mixed-race but has family members who protest against immigration to Ireland.

“I, unfortunately, would have a couple of aunties and uncles who are the sort of people to protest outside places set up as direct provision centres,” she said.

“I feel sometimes that it’s like a personal attack, given that part of my heritage is from immigrants, my mom isn’t from here.

“When I see relatives protesting, I think, ‘Isn’t this like attacking your own family members?’

“It makes me feel conflicted with my own family and other people in my circles too.”

Anti-immigration protestors pictured in Dublin city centre, 5-2-24. Image: Sasko Lazarov/© RollingNews.ie

Ms O’Mahony said she finds it best, as a result, not to talk about immigration with others.

“I don’t bring it up unless I’m in a volunteer group and we’re talking about refugees and asylum seekers,” she said.

“Unfortunately, because of all the protests that are happening, it’s something that does come up – people ask, ‘What’s your opinion on this?’”

Misinformation

Josh Ellul in Dublin said talking about issues in a factual way is needed to stop misinformation from spreading.

“One of the main things I would say is, we need to be understanding of the amount of misinformation and disinformation that’s out there at the minute,” he said.

“People, especially on social media, their fears are being played to.

“As much as I understand why someone would want to avoid conversations, as not everyone is capable of having them, talking to people is important.

“Giving them facts and information to dispel fears they have is important. “

A family arguing at the dinner table. Image: Viacheslav Iakobchuk / Alamy Stock Photo

Psychotherapist Siobhán Murray told the show that differing viewpoints could “split families and friendships”.

“It can create divides very quickly if it’s not managed," she said.

“A lot of times when we’re talking about topics that are very emotive, we will get very reactionary rather than taking the time to go, ‘What’s the best way to approach this’.

“It’s because people are passionate about their particular viewpoint.”

Ms Murray said the way to manage this is by “learning to communicate in a way that’s respectful to ourselves and others”.

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