What is the problem that Kahneman is identifying? How might it interfere when people try to talk and listen to each other, particularly around highly charged issues? Why might it be helpful when attempting dialogue with others to “remind yourself that they [and you] may be in the grip of an illusion” (220)?
The problem that Kahneman is identifying is that people often make assumptions, using fast-thinking, and then stick to believing those assumptions, without using logic and considering how true they are. This would have a huge effect on interactions between people. When discussing highly charged issues, people often have their own opinion and resist changing it. If two people were discussing a highly charged issue, that they had opposing views on, several assumptions would be made; due to the strong beliefs people often have regarding these topics a person will cling to the idea that they are correct and, because the other person strongly clings to their beliefs, they are wrong. The disregard for opposing information and facts in this situation would likely lead to a very negative conversation in which people are unwilling to truly listen and consider the opposite side. In a conversation, “remind[ing] yourself that they [and you] may be in the grip of an illusion” is extremely important because it would open up the mind for new ideas (220). If a person remembers that what they believe may not be totally factual, solely because they believe it, it will be easier to listen to another person explain their ideas. Additionally, remembering that others may be under the illusion that they are completely correct, would help to deal with somebody who appears to be stubborn for this reason.
