Democratic life does not only take place in parliaments, committees, or the hallways of the Bundestag, nor is it limited to politicians’ appearances during election campaigns. The regulars’ table has long served as a distinctive space for democratic discourse – one that can foster openness, but also entrench prejudice.
Definition (according to the German Federal Agency for Civic Education):
The term ‘regulars’ table’ has been around since the end of the 18th century. At that time, citizens met regularly for social gatherings in pubs, wine bars and coffee houses. In addition to socialising over drinks, cards and board games, the regulars’ table was often a place where political and philosophical discussions took place. These were popular because everyone could express their opinion on the political situation and the government in clear and sometimes stark terms.
The problem with ‘bar’ slogans expressed at the regulars’ table:
What are bar slogans? They are characterised by their simplicity, crudeness, generalisation and mostly negative nature. They express prejudices and are always directed against ‘others’ and the ‘unknown’. The supposed ‘others’ are devalued and denounced. At the same time, the notion of ‘others’ serves to enhance the value of ‘we’ or ‘us’.
You can better assert yourself in all kinds of discussions at the regular’s table if you follow these rules:
> Ask questions: this can often expose a lack of expertise.
> Show background knowledge: bring facts into the conversation.
> Using irony: take the wind out of the sails of nonsensical statements
> Point out contradictions: derogatory statements often contain contradictions.
> Break down stereotypes: criticise pigeonholing and generalisation.
> Address emotions: guide emotional conversation partners towards objectivity.
> Use ‘I’ messages: show concern about unobjective statements.
> Use your own experiences: refute generalising statements.
> Seek support: incorporate other perspectives.