Definition of dialogue, its types, characteristics and importance

Definition of dialogue

Dialogue is an exchange of speech and conversation, and it was said about the meaning of dialogue in the terminology, that it is the circulation of speech and conversation between more than one party, or at least between two parties, and this conversation revolves around a specific matter, topic or issue, and the discussion on that subject, while relying on the concept of constructive discussion And all of this proceeds with the exchange of information and experience between the negotiating parties, with the aim of reaching new ideas, or improving and developing an old idea, with an exchange of different opinions.

Dialogue is described as the finest and most refined method of communication, and it carries with it a lot of good manners and good morals, which every individual should possess and enjoy.

Dialogue also has a slight advantage, as it teaches the interlocutors patience and good listening.

For some people, dialogue is a focused and intentional conversation, a space of civility and equality where those who disagree can listen and talk together.  

For others, it is a way of being, associated with perception and creativity. In dialogue, parties seek to set aside fears, prejudices, and the need to win. People take time to hear other voices and possibilities. However, dialogue can include tensions and paradoxes, and new ideas may emerge, as well. Collective wisdom may emerge.   

The goal of the dialogue is not to analyze things, win an argument, or exchange opinions. The person's goal should be to listen to everyone's opinions, comment on them, and listen to comments on his ideas.

Types of dialogue

It falls within the scope of the meaning of dialogue in its overall form, and it has many colors of discussion, negotiation, debate, speech, controversy, and conversation, all of which may constitute a form of dialogue, because the dialogue and its type are related to its purpose and the position of the dialogue, and it is also related to the purpose and nature of the interlocutors, so we explain here what The types of dialogue are:

• Persuasive dialogue

Persuasive dialogue bears its meaning and content from its name. This type of dialogue has its main goal is to reach a solution, and to clarify the facts of the dialogue better. Differences of viewpoints may enter into it, and opinions may conflict between the parties to the dialogue itself, but the goal remains in the end consistent with the name of this type of dialogue. .

• investigative dialogue

This type of dialogue refers in its content in a direct manner to the investigation, which means that this dialogue needs documented evidence, testimonies, and tools to support and document the topic of the dialogue. Proof of evidence and its reliability, above all.

• exploratory dialogue

This type of dialogue takes a different form than others, as it is formed by a research body, its most important goal is to interpret the topic with clarification and explanation of its aspects, and the goal is to settle on a better thesis, or put forward a proposal.

• negotiating dialogue

This type of dialogue is a dialogue in which the two parties, or all of the parties, reach a solution that is consistent with its name, negotiated so that the solution is shared, so that each of the parties to the dialogue can get what it wants, or part of what it wants, while recognizing the difference of opinions.

• Research dialogue

This dialogue aims to collect and exchange information, so the focus here is on exchanging information during the dialogue.

• reflective dialogue

It is a dialogue whose aim is to reach its parties within the available range of the best news, after a stage of calm thinking, contemplation, and coordination between the options presented.

• dialectical dialogue

The dialectical dialogue is a dialogue in which the parties to the dialogue within the speech take a sharp form in the discussion, and it is also characterized by the dominance of the personal tendency that emerges present during the dialogue, and its aim is to reach the origin of the dispute, its roots and the difference between opinions.

dialog properties

Dialogue is characterized by some qualities and characteristics that distinguish it from other types of speech and discussion, without which it does not become a dialogue, and among the most important characteristics that can be referred to regarding dialogue, bearing in mind that it remains a dialogue, even if one of these characteristics is left behind:

• The topic on which the discussion is based is a specific topic, and it cannot be expanded to include others except within limits.
• That the parties to the subject have the ability to dialogue and the topic under discussion, taking into account to talk about what the person understands, and not to talk about what he does not know and it is better to apologize for it.
• Apologizing for the mistake if it was issued with a warning about it, and accepting it and thanking him if the warning was appropriate.
• Reliance on arguments, evidence, and the validity of evidence, while avoiding using lies or sayings that are not true or correct.
• Respect, acceptance of the other opinion, and mutual respect between the two parties, even if the opinions differ.
• Work to approximate the point of view of the negotiating parties in order to reach the facts, not just the personal goal, by triumphing over the opinions of others, because the idea that there is a correct opinion and pride in winning it at the expense of others is neither necessary nor correct, and right and wrong are far from religion and belief, and it is relative.
• Positive, open and comfortable dialogue is the dialogue based on attracting the other party while praising him, and focusing on points of agreement and similarity, rather than paying attention to points of difference, so that the dialogue becomes more positive.
• Being open-hearted, patient and calm in discussions between the parties, and accepting the other party's adherence to his opinion, with attempts to persuade him to change his mind if this change is the most correct, and that is by argument, good exhortation and persuasion.
• Respect for everyone and granting all parties to the dialogue the right to defend an opinion and listen to this opinion without interruption, and without using inappropriate words or expressions, while staying away from using defamation, defamation or slander for the mere difference of opinions. 
• Deliberation and reflection when and before presenting ideas, and the need to ensure the acceptable understanding of the other party in the dialogue, and to ensure that the idea has reached him in a correct way.
• Avoid haste and haste in responding to the other party, or other parties, with the need to maintain calm and not get emotional or angry during the dialogue.

The importance of dialogue

There is no sane person in this life who does not know well the value and importance of dialogue, in every society and any language, and these are the most important points that highlight the importance of dialogue:

• Reaching the most important interpretation of the point of view in all situations, events, and all issues raised, which contributes to making a person expand his horizons.
• Awareness of facts and knowledge for the negotiating parties. 
• Learning flexibility and moving away from intellectual intolerance, intolerance of race, or intolerance of a social class, and all this is done by putting the different parties in thought or belief at the dialogue table.
• Find important spaces for quiet discussions, by avoiding tension or exaggeration. 
• Acquisition of some important skills, for example, communication and interpersonal skills, the most important of which is the skill of listening to the opinion and the other party.
• Learn to respect time and respect the other, by respecting the time allotted for speech.
• Dialogue develops thinking skills.