...taking politics TOO seriously? Interfering with relationships?

[Waverley_Hills_Hiker]

I sometimes wonder if I take politics too seriously, if I'm too obsessed with political things or peoples politics, or judging people by their politics.

I think about this because my main human realtime interactions are at work. And almost all the people i deal with are what we would call conservative. Some are like these born-again Christian types, and a coworker listens to Rush & Dr Laura as well as Xtian radio.

For all this, these people are, as coworkers, pretty good people. They are helpful, competent, friendly, civil (well, mostly. There is one or two who are maybe sort of myopic about things). I never discuss politics with them and they don't with me. In fact politics is rarely discussed at all, even amongst themselves. When it is, it is pretty much the right wing/fundy line.

Yet, I find myself judging these people negatively by what I know, or precieve, about their political views or preferences, which makes me think Im too wrapped up in political things...that its unfairly affecting my opinions of my coworkers.

[corporatewhore]

1. well it depends

i would always no matter how polite and civil regard bigots and homophbes as ignorant and hateful i have no respect for those who have no respect for me

[ayeshahaqqiqa]

2. Look for the good things in these people

Even conservatives have good points. And most aren't as rude and stupid sounding as conservatives that post on political discussion boards. I have found that if one listens to others with respect, they tend to respect you and your opinions more. A lot of times, I can sense when I've said enough politically, and I don't say anything more. I try to understand why people have their points of view; there is always a reason for it. Sometimes after you have understood someone you can talk to them better. I have conservative friends who will never vote Democratic, but who have decided to vote Libertarian instead of Bush; in your case, this might be something to try and convince them to do. Judegment is something we all do, but it isn't very constructive; tolerance is better because you tend not to be as stressed, but is a hard thing to practice.

[ALago1]

3. I used to do the same thing

In fact, when I first became politically aware and embraced liberal ideals for the first time, I shunned many of my friends because they were of a more centrist/conservative leaning.

Before my political awakening, I used to think they were the friendliest, most fun to be with people on the planet.

It is amazing what one's worldview can do to warp reality.

In retrospect, I look at my former friends as basically good people with a good heart who for some reason or another, fell into the wrong belief system. Most of them it was merely because of family influence and didn't even have to do with them making a conscious decision.

Take people for more than what they view politically. Because I think in the end, everyone wants the same goals achieved, yet basically disagree on the fundamental assumptions one makes in deciding the best way to get there.

[Malva Zebrina]

4. You are entitled to your perceptions according to your beliefs

and your reactions to those around you. There is nothig wrong with that and there is nothing you need to apologize for.

You are not obliged to give up your sincere beliefs for the sake of "getting along" with those around you who have different beliefs

It probably is best, though, if your job is your concern, to not embark on any discussions at all re politics.

Just work for your politics elsewhere, away from the job, and do so vigorously

[Vladimir]

5. You can't separate the personal and political very easily

Fat, as they say, is a feminist issue.

V

[gmoney]

6. Think of them as potential converts?

Without being obnoxious about it, obviously, but you can subtley point out the various stupid shit Bush is doing to mainstream America. ("Can you believe they're talking about cutting social security?" or "How come they eliminated overtime pay?" or "I hear XYZ company is laying off 150 people next month...can you believe it?") No need to get on your soapbox even, just nudge them in the right direction...