Every year around November, I hear the same advice regarding what is and is not proper etiquette for the Thanksgiving dinner table. Religion and politics, I am always told, are never to be brought up at the dinner table. Why?

What is so bad about politics? What are we scared of? Are we afraid of offending people, of ruining relationships with family members?

Or is this simply a reflection based on how poorly we can respectfully exchange our thoughts and ideas with others?

Avoiding political discourse during Thanksgiving, a holiday founded on celebrating social and cultural diversity seems hypocritical to me. If the Pilgrims and the Native Americans can get along, so can we.

What's the solution?

First, let's start teaching people how to express their thoughts without getting frustrated or upset. If someone is screaming at you, you are not convincing anyone. The goal is to get your thoughts across reasonable, and yelling at the top of your lungs because someone doesn't agree with you isn't the most useful debate tactic.

Second, ask more questions. In a debate, clarification is key. Nodding your head and following the conversation contributes to a better understanding of the other person and their opinion. If you misunderstand another person's opinion, you could misinterpret the entire conversation. Ask questions. Show you are interested in learning about another person's perspective.

Third, be open towards new ideas. Different people bring different ideas to the table, especially the Thanksgiving dinner table. The best thing you can do is be open to everyone's diverse opinions. Being open-minded will enhance your skills at confronting people who are different than you.

Fourth, always be respectful. No matter what, never lose your cool. Be respectful of different opinions, let other people have a chance to talk, and don't lose your temper.

Fifth, end the discussion with a compromise, or an "agree to disagree". Sometimes, we assume politics at the Thanksgiving dinner table will always end in an uproar, food and or utensils being thrown, or an immediate exit. However, this does not always have to be the case. Some questions, especially in politics, do not have simple answers. The point of the discussion is not to solve the world's problems, but rather, to engage in a free and voluntary exchange of ideas, thoughts, questions, and policies.

If we follow these guidelines, why can't we talk politics anymore?