For the Sake of Argument

Once upon a time, arguments were a way to get smarter, to understand each other, and to see the world beyond our own ideas. Each of our stories is crafted with a clash of values in mind, asking you to take a side—even if it’s one you wouldn’t normally choose. This is the fun of values clashes: they force us to make independent choices, sometimes revealing our authentic humanity in surprising ways. Think of our stories as an exercise book—a personal trainer for your argument muscles. Our world needs more people brave enough to venture into the discomfort of disagreement, not to seek consensus, but to build bridges of understanding with those whose views we reject. These stories are tools for building that stamina. Every story in this collection is an opportunity to engage with a real issue through the lens of fiction. From arguments about race and power to personal conscience versus public decree, these stories are a mirror of the world’s most pressing debates—each one offering a chance to explore, to disagree, and to grow. It began with our first book, a collection of 24 stories that sparked meaningful discussions about Israel across the globe. We've since released a Democratya booklet on Israel’s judicial reforms and a wartime collection offering a unique lens on the Israel-Hamas conflict. Now, we're excited to announce the upcoming release of a new collection in honor of the one-year anniversary of October 7—stories arising from the events of the past year. Ready to begin? Dive in, discuss, disagree, and discover. Whether you’re reading alone or with others, there’s a place for you in these conversations. Visit our website for unlimited access to all our stories and resources: forthesakeofargument.org

Arguments can be FUN when we use them to learn, grow, and connect! 🌀

Consider this: Hasbara might not be the way forward. What if we tried opening up the conversation instead? Hazmana not Hasbara. "Invitation" not "Explanation" #hasbara #israeleducation #healthyarguments #arguments #jewisheducation

In the past 2 years, we’ve brought For the Sake of Argument to the main stage at 7 high-profile conferences. Looking for speakers or teachers for your upcoming event? Abi and Robbie will captivate your audience with short ‘argument-stories,’ insightful perspectives, and practical tips for navigating healthy arguments in today’s divided world. Contact inquiries@forthesakeofargument.org to book today #forthesakeofargument #healthyarguments #jewisheducation

The war has sparked arguments that have shaped our conversations online, at the office, in our congregations, and at the dinner table. As we approach the one-year anniversary, we are launching a new set of stories arising from the past year’s events. These stories are designed to spark disagreements about key issues that have emerged from the war, explore the arguments and discussions that have arisen, and honor those impacted. We invite you to join us in remembering and understanding these events through stories that can be read aloud and discussed with family and friends or used as a learning tool in an educational context. Sign up for our email list to be the first in line for early access: https://lnkd.in/diEdDXtw

Is it our actions that influence our emotions, or do our emotions shape our actions? In our newest blog post, Robbie explores the connections between behavior, emotion, and the potential to bridge divides. Read more: https://lnkd.in/dr_xTZsH

Every type of argument serves a different purpose. A debate: The aim of debate is to persuade others of your position. It's about convincing others, winning the argument, and showcasing the value and relevance of your perspective. Even if you don't convince your opponent, your goal is to persuade the listeners. A negotiation: A negotiation often begins with disagreement, but the goal is to come to a mutual decision or consensus. Negotiation is fundamentally about finding agreement and harmony within different perspectives. A healthy argument: The intent of a healthy argument is to engage in a discussion with the aim of growth and learning. It's okay if you didn't convince anyone or reach consensus, because that's not the objective. Our goal is to fill our tree with new leaves--new ideas and perspectives. Before diving in, take a moment to assess the kind of argument you're in, and consider what kind you’d prefer to have. Understanding this can make all the difference in the outcome of the argument, your personal growth, and your connection with the person or people you're arguing with. ✨

Earlier this summer we trained American and Israeli counselors from Ramah Israel who then went on to lead Ramah Seminar campers this summer. Just last week, we joined the Ramah Seminar participants once again for an afternoon in Jerusalem on why and how to engage in healthy arguments. These American teens divided up into small groups, and practiced their argument skills by talking about two complicated issues from whether or not singing the national anthem is a sign of protest ("A Jewish Soul Yearns" linked below) , and when, if ever, is racism justified ("Send them Home!" linked below) A Jewish Soul Yearns: https://lnkd.in/d8jUfR8m Send them Home: https://lnkd.in/dvY6uv_m

Are you ready for an argument? Before you enter into an argument, we suggest doing a gut check with yourself. Answer these questions: Right now, I am emotionally able to engage with someone who has a different opinion than my own. 👍 Yes or ❌ No I am able to be curious about why their opinion is different than mine. 👍 Yes or ❌ No I am able to listen, to gather information and insights, without hunting. 👍 Yes or ❌ No If you answered no to these questions and to our emotionally readiness check, now is the time to ask yourself: ✨If not now, then when?✨ Fix a date for yourself when you aim to be ready for the conversation that is waiting for you. 💡If you do decide to speak with someone who has different opinions, remember that they might not be at the same level of readiness. 💭Engage in the conversation with a spirit of curiosity and kindness, aiming for understanding rather than winning.

Want to know the secret to changing the outcome of an argument? Shift your mindset!