University of Iowa Professor Offers Tips for Navigating Controversial Disagreements

Dr. Aaron Scherer provides advice on how to have productive discussions on divisive topics like vaccines and politics.

Apr. 13, 2026 at 4:48am

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A softly blurred, abstract photograph in warm, muted tones depicting two people in conversation, their faces obscured but body language suggesting a thoughtful, respectful dialogue.Maintaining open and empathetic communication is key to navigating controversial disagreements, according to a University of Iowa professor.Iowa City Today

In a presentation at Iowa City's 'Darwin Day' event, University of Iowa professor Dr. Aaron Scherer offered guidance on how people can discuss controversial topics like vaccines and politics in a way that maintains relationships. Scherer emphasized the importance of approaching these conversations in good faith, being open-minded, and prioritizing the relationship over winning the argument.

Why it matters

As research shows a growing divide between people on controversial issues, Scherer's advice aims to help bridge those gaps and keep valuable relationships intact, even when there are strong disagreements.

The details

Scherer pinned the blame for the widening divide on social media algorithms and misinformation online, noting that 'we used to be able to agree on the facts about things and then we might disagree about the interpretation, but agree on the facts. Whereas now I feel like we are living in different realities because of those information streams.' He suggested approaching these talks with an open mind, acknowledging personal biases, and assuming the other person is acting in good faith.

  • Scherer gave the presentation on Saturday morning at Iowa City's 'Darwin Day' event.

The players

Dr. Aaron Scherer

A professor at the University of Iowa who specializes in addressing controversial disagreements.

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What they’re saying

“Ultimately, they're not going to care about what you have to say if they don't feel like you care about them.”

— Dr. Aaron Scherer, University of Iowa Professor

The takeaway

Scherer's advice highlights the importance of maintaining open and empathetic communication, even on divisive topics, in order to preserve valuable relationships and find common ground.