WHEN was the last time someone managed to change your mind using reasoned
argument? I’m talking here about a volte-face over some important issue that you
held a deep conviction about, not whether to have chocolate or strawberry ice
cream.
Thinking back to all the late-night arguments I have had about politics,
euthanasia or whether Brian Clough should have managed the England football
team, I can’t recall anyone ever saying to me: “Hey, you know, thinking about
it, your arguments are plainly better than mine. You’re right and I’m wrong, so
I’m going to change my mind.” Admittedly, I don’t recall ever saying anything…
