(If I had two karma points, I’d start its own thread on the topic, but I’m a lurker and I don’t.)
I’m working (on the side) on a website that enables 1-on-1 conversations on a controversial topic, with someone of the opposing view. You are shown a list of topics, and asked what your opinion is on them (“I don’t know” is an option). Then you are matched to another party that answered differently. You then start a text-based chat with them. Everything is anonymous (your name and avatar are auto-generated).
I am hoping that this could be a tool to reduce polarization and promote active open mindedness. Here’s what I wrote:
“You may not be convinced by their arguments, but hopefully your conversation will lead to a better understanding on both sides. We hope that an interaction with someone with a different viewpoint will lead to reduced animosity toward their whole out-group.”
However, as we get closer to launch, I’m trying to think of how to attract the right kind of users. Here’s a list of who might be attracted to such a site:
Those that hold a strong point of view and want to convince others.
Those that are actively open minded and want to learn about various view points.
Those that just want to debate for debate’s sake.
I’m having a hard time trying to figure out how to spin the project so that it’s attractive for people that aren’t normally into rationalism, self-doubt, CMV/etc. My friend suggested that I ask the rationalist community for their ideas, and here we are. Any thoughts here?
(If I had two karma points, I’d start its own thread on the topic, but I’m a lurker and I don’t.)
I’m working (on the side) on a website that enables 1-on-1 conversations on a controversial topic, with someone of the opposing view. You are shown a list of topics, and asked what your opinion is on them (“I don’t know” is an option). Then you are matched to another party that answered differently. You then start a text-based chat with them. Everything is anonymous (your name and avatar are auto-generated).
I am hoping that this could be a tool to reduce polarization and promote active open mindedness. Here’s what I wrote:
“You may not be convinced by their arguments, but hopefully your conversation will lead to a better understanding on both sides. We hope that an interaction with someone with a different viewpoint will lead to reduced animosity toward their whole out-group.”
However, as we get closer to launch, I’m trying to think of how to attract the right kind of users. Here’s a list of who might be attracted to such a site:
Those that hold a strong point of view and want to convince others.
Those that are actively open minded and want to learn about various view points.
Those that just want to debate for debate’s sake.
I’m having a hard time trying to figure out how to spin the project so that it’s attractive for people that aren’t normally into rationalism, self-doubt, CMV/etc. My friend suggested that I ask the rationalist community for their ideas, and here we are. Any thoughts here?